AFL Finals Week Two Preview: Cats and Giants Look to Avoid Straight Sets Exit While Swans and Eagles Aim to Keep Dream Alive

Geelong has missed the finals just once since 2006. One of the strongest clubs of the modern era with three premierships to their name in the past decade, the Cats are perennial finals participants.

Delving deeper in to their finals record since their most recent premiership triumph in 2011 makes for some interesting reading. Chris Scott’s men have played in 8 finals since 2012, and lost six of them, their only wins coming in the 2013 semi-final against Port Adelaide and Hawthorn in last year’s qualifying final. They went out in straight sets in 2014, and are staring at an identical fate in 2017 should they fail to get past the form team of the competition in the Sydney Swans.

They lacked the spark and intensity required for such an important final against an irrepressible Richmond outfit last Friday, beaten around the contest by a far more lively Tigers side that wanted the ball more and hunted the opposition like a team possessed when they had the footy.

The Swans will head to Melbourne with no fear, having beaten the Cats in last year’s preliminary final and won their past two fixtures at Kardinia Park, a notoriously tough place to win. Of course this match is at the MCG, but John Longmire’s men know how to win at the home of football too.

The other semi-final promises to be just as good if not better, with the wounded Greater Western Sydney Giants hosting the West Coast Eagles, still living off the emotional high of their memorable victory over  Port Adelaide in extra time last Saturday night, Luke Shuey with the match winner after the siren.

With the Giants without two of their most important players in Shane Mumford and Jeremy Cameron, the Eagles will sense an opportunity to swoop and remarkably progress to a preliminary final, an unfathomable thought for even the most ardent of Eagles supporters.

6 teams remain, but only four shall be left after two cracking semi-finals this weekend. Here is a preview of both games.

 

FLASHBACK: Lance Franklin and Tom Papley celebrate a goal in last year’s 2016 preliminary Final. SOURCE: ABC.

 

Geelong v Sydney

They say ladder positions don’t lie come the end of the home and away season. But 2017 may be an exception to that expression.

Geelong finished on second position on the table after 23 rounds, while Sydney qualified 6^th, yet Sydney head in to this match as clear favourites, having won 15 of their past 17 matches.

John Longmire’s men are the form team of the competition, having spectacularly recovered from a 0-6 start to be one of the remaining 6 teams in the AFL finals race after their demolition job on Essendon last week at the SCG.

The Swans kicked 10 goals in an incredible second quarter performance against the Dons, superstar Lance Franklin putting on another SCG show with four goals for the term. Having been injured early it looked like the two time premiership Hawk would struggle to have an impact, but looks can be deceiving, as the four time Coleman Medallist took control of the match and helped give his team an unassailable lead.

Having sat out the last quarter as a precaution Franklin appears fit and raring to go with another contest against Geelong and one of his fiercest rivals in Tom Lonergan in a cut throat semi-final at the MCG.

 

RUNNING OUT OF LIVES: Geelong players leave the MCG after their 51 point Qualifying Final loss to Richmond. SOURCE: Herald Sun.

 

The Cats were oh so disappointing against Richmond in front of more than 95,000 people last Friday night, and while you can argue about whether or not the match should have been played at Kardinia Park it doesn’t excuse the poor performance with so much to play for in a qualifying final.

Geelong went the best part of a half without finding the major opening in a scrappy, pressurised error riddled contest, before Richmond eventually assumed control of the match in the last 40 minutes of the match, winning by 51 points.

Chris Scott and his selection committee admitted making a selection blunder ahead of the Tigers match, leaving out Daniel Menzel who is the Cats third highest goalkicker in 2017 with 38 majors. He returns for this semi-final, as does speedster Darcy Lang for his first match since round 14. Cam Guthrie is a huge omission due to a calf injury, while Jordan Murdoch loses his place after a poor game against the Tigers.

Sydney are a settled, well drilled well-oiled machine, naming the same 22 that faced Essendon in the second elimination final. Veteran Jarrad McVeigh will play game 300, becoming just the fourth Swan to reach that milestone in the process, long time team mates Adam Goodes, Jude Bolton Michael O’Loughlin being the other three.

He also welcomed his third child to the world during the week, having tragically lost his first born daughter Luella to a heart condition in 2011. Sydney have made a habit of lifting for milestone games over the years, making an even tougher task for the Cats that little bit tougher.

In the past two meetings between the clubs the Swans have essentially won the game in the first quarter, kicking 7 goals in both the preliminary final and the match in round 20 this year. If the Cats don’t come to play, a similar scenario could play out under Friday night MCG lights.

Sydney have been irrepressible in the second half of this season, and should send the Cats packing in straight sets here. Sydney by 23 points.

 

MILESTONE MAN: Jarrad McVeigh played his 300th game for Sydney against Geelong on Friday night. SOURCE: Sydney Swans FC.

 

Greater Western Sydney v West Coast

Have Eagles supporters A) calmed down from last Saturday night? And B) stopped celebrating? What an incredible game, a rollercoaster of emotions from start to finish.

West Coast secured one of their most memorable victories in the clubs 30 year plus history at the Adelaide Oval last Saturday night, winning in extra time against the Power with Luke Shuey nailing a set shot after the siren.

Sure, I can hear Power fans distantly screaming about the free kick that allowed Shuey to kick that major, but if Port Adelaide had of taken their chances earlier in the game and in extra time, the result of that kick would not have mattered.

As it is West Coast live to fight another day, while Port Adelaide head off in to the sunset to commence their off-season. The Eagles face another tough assignment as they hope to progress to a preliminary final against Richmond, taking on the might of the Greater Western Sydney Giants at Spotless Stadium.

 

EAGLE ELATION: West Coast players mob Luke Shuey after his match winning goal against Port Adelaide last Saturday night. SOURCE: 9WWOS.

 

The Giants were oh so disappointing against Adelaide in the first qualifying final last Thursday night, and are no doubt itching at the opportunity to make wrongs right, having had to wait 9 days before this game against the Eagles.

They will do so without vitally important players Shane Mumford and Jeremy Cameron, both ruled out due to injury. Mumford in particularly is a huge loss, such a presence around the stoppages. An area of dominance has dried up for Leon Cameron’s men, with such a star studded midfield given silver service by the former Geelong and Sydney ruckman.

It means Rory Lobb has been thrust in to the number one ruck role, Jonathon Patton likely to be his back up. It takes both players to extended periods out of the forward line, and with West Coast possessing a strong backline with talls McGovern, Barrass and MacKenzie all able of taking intercept marks to win the ball back for the visitors.

Veteran Steve Johnson returns for what could be his last game of AFL football if his side is unable to emerge victorious, young gun Tim Taranto also back in to the side to replace the injured Mumford and Cameron.

The Eagles have made just one change, bringing back 2010 Collingwood premiership player Sharrod Wellingham at the expense of youngster Luke Partington. With Mumford and Cameron absent, the Eagles have a clear advantage in the key position department, Josh Kennedy and Jack Darling looming large having shared 6 majors last Saturday.

This game will be one and lost in the midfield, with the Giants having stars such as Josh Kelly, Dylan Shiel, Callan Ward, Tom Scully, Stephen Coniglio, Toby Greene and Lachie Whitfield all outstanding players. West Coast need big games once again out of players such as Luke Shuey, Dom Sheed, Andrew Gaff and veterans Sam Mitchell and Matt Priddis, the latter two staring at retirement should they fall short of victory at Spotless Stadium.

Reckon this will be the closer of the two games, but with the Giants at home and having so much top end talent at their disposal, I think they will account for the Eagles, who can give their season a tick now having won a final. Greater Western Sydney by 9 points.

 

A GIANT OUT: Jeremy Cameron is out for the remainder of the season with a hamstring injury. SOURCE: Fox Sports. 

 

By Jacob Landsmeer.

Jacob Landsmeer is a sports broadcaster on 91.3 Sport FM in Perth. He blogs here at zombiecrowscricket. Follow him on Twitter: @jlandsme_93

AFL Finals Week One Preview: Crows and Giants Kick off Finals Series with Thursday Night Blockbuster

We can stop complaining now. It’s been 11 days since the 2017 AFL home and away season came to a conclusion in thrilling fashion, West Coast defeating Adelaide to secure the final place inside the top 8 at the expense of Melbourne.

Rather than fly straight in to finals the AFL of course had it’s scheduled pre-finals bye last weekend, which continues to divide football fans, players and commentators alike. Whether you like it or not, the weekend without AFL football has come and gone, and now we can fly in to finals.

It kicks off on Thursday night at the Adelaide Oval, with top of the table Adelaide Crows facing Greater Western Sydney in a qualifying final, a home preliminary final up for grabs.

While there is just one final in Victoria this weekend, it could feature a crowd in excess of 97,000 with Richmond looking to end a drought of 16 years without a finals victory against second placed Geelong, who despite earning the right to a home final are playing at the MCG with a pro-Richmond crowd to contend with.

Sydney host Essendon at the SCG and Port Adelaide play West Coast on Saturday in the two elimination finals, in what promises to be a sensational first week of finals in 2017, in one of the greatest seasons the game has ever seen. Here is a complete preview.

 

NO SHOW SLOANE: Crows midfielder Rory Sloane will miss the 1st qualifying final against Greater Western Sydney due to appendicitis. SOURCE: FIVEaa.

 

Adelaide v Greater Western Sydney

It’s finally here! Game one of the 2017 finals series has arrived, and it promises to be a belter. The Crows finished as minor premiers but lost their final two games of the home and away season, while the Giants had a stinging loss at the hands of Geelong at Kardinia Park in round 23 to somewhat dent their premiership credentials.

All that though seems a lifetime ago now, as September has arrived and both teams have put themselves in a position to contend for the 2017 premiership.

The Giants have endured a tough season, with injuries to key players robbing them of consistency and continuity. In a sign of the talent at Leon Cameron’s disposal they have still secured a top four finish, when most other clubs would have struggled through the season and finished outside the top 8.

Adelaide has the home ground advantage for this first qualifying final, which against a fellow interstate side is a significant advantage for Don Pyke’s team. The Giants have not beaten the Crows at the Adelaide Oval, and have won just once at the venue from five matches. The clubs met in the opening round of this season, and Adelaide announced themselves as a premiership contender from the outset by defeating the AFL’s newest club by 56 points.

The Crows regain the services of captain Taylor Walker, gun defender Daniel Talia and boom utility Hugh Greenwood for this final, the winner to secure a home preliminary final and put themselves in the ideal position to make the 2017 Grand Final. Rory Sloane is a huge out for the home side with appendicitis, Alex Keath and Wayne Milera omitted.

GWS have made a bold call at the selection table, dropping three time premiership player and 2007 Norm Smith Medallist Steve Johnson after a poor run of form before finals, Devon Smith out with a knee injury. Harrison Himmelberg and Matt De Boer come in for the match in the city of churches, De Boer’s finals experience with Fremantle sure to come in handy.

There are question marks on both teams heading in to this match, but the Crows at home are going to be tough to beat with 50,000 fans cheering them on. They should secure the first preliminary final spot. Adelaide by 21 points.

 

KEY PLAYER: Josh Kelly will be a crucial player in the Giants premiership push. SOURCE: Fox Sports.

 

Geelong v Richmond

Anyone in Victoria not going to this match? This is going to be huge.

No less than 97,000 people are expected to wander through the turnstiles for this qualifying final, the Tigers out to end a drought of 16 years without a finals victory against a perennial finals side in Geelong.

Don’t mention the ‘C’ word down at Tigerland. While everyone else in the football world wants to focus in on the three successive elimination finals defeats from 2013-15, this Richmond side is better placed, having finished 3^rd and been presented with the unique scenario of playing a final at their home ground despite being considered the ‘away’ team.

Geelong had every right to have this game at Kardinia Park, only to be rebuked by the AFL who fixtured the game at the MCG due to the obvious capacity issues if the game was to be played at the Cattery.

That debate will rage on forever and a day, but the game itself deserves all the publicity rather than the venue. Richmond have been the surprise packet of the 2017 season, coming from a diabolical 13^th placed 8 win season that went without a whisker of costing coach Damien Hardwick his job.

What has occurred since has been nothing short of remarkable, with the Tigers winning 15 games in the home and away season as their ball movement, pressure and ferocity at the contest making them a great team to watch. Not to mention a certain bloke wearing number 4 called Dustin Martin, who has produced one of the most incredible individual seasons the game has ever seen.

The Cats have had another fantastic season, a second placed finish coming somewhat as a surprise but certainly a reflection on their consistency. Patrick Dangerfield has had another brilliant season, but other players such as Mitch Duncan, boom recruit Zach Tuohy , Sam Menegola and of course skipper Joel Selwood have all been outstanding.

Selwood returns from an ankle injury sustained late in the home and away season to strengthen the Cats side for this huge final, an inclusion that could make a huge difference come the final siren in this one.

Former Cat Josh Caddy returns for the Tigers, having sustained a hamstring injury in the round 21 fixture between the clubs.

Harry Taylor famously went to Alex Rance in that game to play as a defensive forward, before becoming the difference with four majors in a virtuoso performance. He looms as a key once again, as he it set for another contest with the All Australian captain.

Going to be one for the ages this one, I’m not sure how Melbourne will cope if the Tigers get up here. Odds on to get 100,000 at a preliminary final if they get there. Think the Cats experience may just tell here. But who can ever be sure. Can’t wait for this game. Geelong by 11 points.

 

STAR OF THE GAME: Dustin Martin will be crucial to Richmond’s finals chances in 2017. SOURCE: SEN.

 

Sydney v Essendon

Not asking for much here I know, but if we could just have a repeat of the game in round 14 between these two clubs? While Essendon fans are no strangers to heartbreaking one point losses at the SCG (in finals too, the 1996 preliminary final is a taboo subject down at Bomberland) the Friday night contest back in June was probably game of the season in a year full of thrillers from start to finish.

Up by 3 goals with 4 minutes remaining, the Swans conjured a miraculous victory right at the death, Gary Rohan clutching the ball to his chest at the top of the goalsquare and slotting the goal after the siren to put the Swans in the 8 for the first time in season 2017.

It was a sliding doors moment for John Longmire’s men, for a loss would have put them a fair way off the pace and fighting an uphill battle for the remainder of the year. As it proved, a 0-6 start has become a 14-8 finish, a home elimination final the reward for a brilliant back half of the season for the red and whites.

Rarely has a team that has finished 6^th on the ladder gone in to a finals series as a premiership favourite, but such has been the dominant form of the Swans in the back half of this season and their ability to produce their best football in September, they almost appear the team to beat.

No doubt the pre-finals bye will help them, and the fact they will have to win every final that they play in order to win the premiership and have the continuity of playing football in consecutive weeks certainly could prove to be an advantage.

But first they must beat the Bombers, who after years of turmoil have emerged from the shadows to return to finals for the first time since 2014, looking for their first finals win since 2004. A 7^th placed finish is just reward for a fine season for John Worsfold’s men, despite some poor showings along the way.

Joe Daniher has become an elite forward, Zach Merrett is an A-Grade midfielder, Michael Hurley has had a magnificent season in defence, while small forwards Orazio Fantasia and Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti are up there with the most exciting players in the competition.

Now the challenge is to win a final, and if the Dons were able to beat the Swans it could pave the way for an incredible finals series for the boys in red and black.

2017 Coleman medallist Lance Franklin looms large here for the Swans, but he was held goalless in round 14 by Michael Hartley (despite kicking 6 behinds) and either he or the returning Hurley are likely to be handed the mountainous task of stopping the superstar forward of the competition.

Sadly for the Dons I think the challenge is too steep here, it would take their best and then some to topple the Swans on their home patch. Cale Hooker is a big out. Sydney by 27 points.

 

FLASHBACK: Sydney players celebrate their thrilling victory over Essendon in round 14. SOURCE: The Australian.

 

Port Adelaide v West Coast

Ok Port Adelaide, now is your chance. Show us you are up to it. There is nowhere to hide come finals, and despite capitalising on an easy draw the jury is still out on whether the team from Alberton is able to match it with the best teams in the competition.

A game against West Coast at home is a far from comfortable fixture for the Power, who have not beaten the Eagles at the venue from 3 attempts. Sure, Adam Simpson’s men only just scraped in to the finals with a win in round 23 over Adelaide in a memorable moment for the Perth based club, but they will cross the nullabor with plenty of confidence.

Paddy Ryder looms large in this game, having dominated both fixtures between the clubs in the 2017 home and away season. While players such as Wingard, Robbie Gray and Ollie Wines have the ability to take this game by storm, Ryder can dominate the air and give the midfielders first use opposed to Nathan Vardy and Drew Petrie.

Despite some hysteria from Perth media during the past fortnight neither Nic Naitanui or Willie Rioli will play for the Eagles, with West Coast naming an unchanged team.

Both teams have been hard to get a read on in 2017, but that all counts for squat now. The Power’s ball movement could potentially cause the Eagles some headaches, while Josh Kennedy looms large for the Eagles, with good form in recent matches against the Power.

While the Eagles record in Adelaide is outstanding with 5 wins from 6 matches, I think the Power might win this one. Port Adelaide by 24 points.

 

DOMINANT FORCE: Paddy Ryder has dominated the two matches against the Eagles this season. SOURCE: SBS.

 

By Jacob Landsmeer.

Jacob Landsmeer is a sports broadcaster on 91.3 Sport FM in Perth. He blogs here at zombiecrowscricket. Follow him on Twitter: @jlandsme_93

AFL Round 23 Preview: Race on for Top 4 and Top 8 Spots in Weekend of Farewells

It’s that time of the year again. Where 18 teams become 8. The best survive the cull, the worst fade off in to the sunset and strive to come again bigger and better the following year.

It’s round 23 of the 2017 AFL season, the final weekend of the home and away campaign before we hit finals time. Well, almost. There is a pre-finals bye ahead of September, but I could write another piece on that on it’s own.

Of course with ten teams bowing out of action for 2017 the round is tinged with sadness, as several players are set to farewell the game having announced their retirement from AFL football. Luke Hodge, Matt Priddis, Sam Mitchell, Nick Riewoldt, Robert Murphy and Matthew Boyd among those set for their final outings as champion players of the game.

For some the finals dream is still alive, with St Kilda, West Coast and Western Bulldogs all still a chance of qualifying for September. All three teams are relying on an improbable Fremantle victory over Essendon to qualify, but in a season as crazily unpredictable as this one, you wouldn’t rule it out.

It sets up an emotion charged finish to the regular 2017 AFL season, kicking off with the Hawks-Bulldogs match under the roof on Friday night at Docklands. Here is a complete preview of the round.

Hawthorn v Western Bulldogs

The Hawks finals charge ended abruptly last week with a shock loss to Carlton, the Blues first win over Alastair Clarkson’s men since round 6, 2005. The Dogs appear long odds to make the 8 after a disappointing loss to the Power in Ballarat, leading at every change bar the last.

This game therefore has far less appeal on paper than it did say a month ago, but with a host of veterans farewelling the game in this fixture it still has a strong emotional appeal to kick off the final round of the season.

Luke Hodge will play his 305^th and final game of AFL football, having achieved all there is to achieve in there is in the game. A four time premiership player, two time Norm Smith medallist and three time premiership captain among other career achievements, he is an instant hall of famer when he becomes eligible in 2021.

The Dogs farewell Robert Murphy and Matthew Boyd, two dependable veterans of the club for the past 15 years. Having amassed 602 games between them, they have been constant fixtures in the Bulldogs side and are among the most loved  and respected players wear the red , white and blue jumper.

It’s been the most frustrating of premiership defences for Luke Beveridge’s men, injury and form slumps to key personnel robbing them of crucial momentum during the year. While a win here would keep them in the running for a finals berth, it would appear unlikely based on the body of work across this season to date.

Hawthorn’s loss to the Blues essentially came because of a sluggish start, Carlton capitalising and building momentum from there.  Both teams have a debutaunt for the match, the Hawks unveiling mid sized defender Harry Morrison and the Dogs calling on Patrick Lipinski, a crafty half forward.

Considering they are going to chair off one of their all-time greats post match, I expect the Hawks to lift here and defeat the Dogs, officially ending the dream of back to back for the boys from Whitten Oval. Of course, those who are realistic know that dream ended a fair while ago. Hawthorn by 23 points.

 

ONE LAST HURRAH: Luke Hodge will play his final AFL game against the Western Bulldogs on Friday night. SOURCE: Sportal.

 

Collingwood v Melbourne

If Collingwood could have a theme song to sum up the past four seasons for their football club, it would be Greenday’s ‘Wake Me Up When September Ends’. Another season without finals for Nathan Buckley’s men means another year of failure, and you wonder if things will change in the short term for the AFL’s biggest club.

D-day looms early next week for one of Collingwood’s favourite sons, the board to make a decision on Buckley’s future as coach. You wonder whether the result of this game truly matters for the Magpies, and whether the decision has already been made one way or another.

Still the Magpies would love to finish the season with a victory, in what has been another disappointing year, yielding just 8 wins from 21 matches to date. They welcome back Brodie Grundy from a two game suspension to battle Demons giant Max Gawn, while veteran utility Tyson Goldsack returns to add some flexibility to the Magpies side. Josh Smith and Jarryd Blair lose their place, resigned to finishing the season in the VFL.

Melbourne have finally recalled Jack Watts after continued speculation about his future at the club, having kicked the match winner when the clubs met in round 12. Christian Salem joins him in the selected 22, Corey Wagner and Billy Stretch dropped.

While almost assured of a finals berth, Simon Goodwin’s men would love to march in to finals with a victory in the final round, setting them up well for what they hope will be a profitable finals campaign, their first since 2006.

The Pies will want to finish their season well, and they might just lift that little bit more for the match. Collingwood by 11 points.

 

WILL HE STAY OR WILL HE GO: Nathan Buckley’s future as Collingwood coach remains up in the air as he is yet to be offered a new coaching contract. SOURCE: Big Footy

 

Brisbane v North Melbourne

The battle for the spoon. The who cares who wins cup. Anyone remember the 2007 ‘Kruezer Cup’ between Melbourne and Carlton? Both teams tried not to win to gain the number one draft pick by finishing last in a match that had to be seen to be believed.

While no one expects the game to drop to those heights here, the same scenario confronts the Lions and Roos as that infamous day in September 2007. Brisbane appear to be playing the better football,  having pushed Melbourne last week and defeated Gold Coast easily in the Q-Clash a fortnight ago.

North Melbourne have been ravaged by injury in recent weeks and appear to be limping to the finish line in 2017, captain Jack Ziebell (foot) ruckman Braydon Preuss (shoulder), young guns Daniel Neilson (concussion) and Taylor Garner (foot) all ruled out of the last match of the season. Cameron Zurhaar loses his place having been dropped.

The Lions go in with an unchanged team, far more settled and primed to record their 6^th win of the season. Chris Fagan’s men should go in to 2018 with a confidence boosting win, and avoiding the wooden spoon. They could finish as high as 15^th despite being bottom of the table since round 7. Brisbane by 32 points.

Sydney v Carlton

How good are the Swans? What a win in Adelaide last Friday night.

Having dominated the opening 45 minutes of the match the Crows then assumed control and appeared to have all the momentum in the final term, before late goals from Sam Reid and Tom Papley delivered a memorable interstate win for John Longmire’s men.

They will remarkably play finals despite a 0-6 start to the season, and this looms as a great opportunity for revenge for the red and whites, having lost to the Blues back in round 6 at the MCG. That seemed to be the tipping point for the Swans, but they have only lost two matches since, both to Hawthorn in round 10 and 19 respectively.

Back on their home patch, which has become a fortress again after some losses at the venue earlier in the season, they should account for a Carlton side that has found the second half of the season tough going, despite an impressive effort to defeat Hawthorn in their last home game of the season last week.

Last week’s last gasp hero Papley is out for the Swans with a knee complaint, while star midfielder Daniel Hannebery is out with a hip ailment. Harry Cunningham and Nic Newman have a chance to demand a spot ahead of finals.

Retiring Blue Dennis Armfield comes back for one last hurrah for Carlton, Jack Silvagni’s second season bought to a halt a week early with a shoulder injury.

Sydney will sense a swift and brutal kill here of the Blues, but expect Brendon Bolton’s men to be nuisance value as they have been most of the season. Sydney by 28 points.

 

FINALLY: Carlton players celebrate defeating Hawthorn for the first time since round 6, 2005 last week. SOURCE: SEN.

 

Geelong v Greater Western Sydney

Game of the round. The way the ladder is set up with one round to come, there is every chance these two clubs could meet again at the same venue in two weeks’ time.

The Cats are oh so hard to beat at Kardinia Park, the Giants yet to win at the venue in their brief history. The winner of this match will collect second spot, with GWS still an outside chance of winning the minor premiership should Adelaide lose to the Eagles and they emerge victorious here.

Geelong welcomes back integral players Tom Hawkins and Mark Blicavs from suspension and injury respectively. The Giants have included retiring veteran Steve Johnson to face his former side, Rory Lobb also back after being a late withdrawal against the Eagles last week.

When these two teams last met it was a thrilling draw at Spotless Stadium, the Cats leading nearly all night before the Giants came home with a wet sail, Hawkins missing a shot after the siren to win the match.

We can expect a similarly close game this time around, with so much on the line and both teams wanting to prove themselves against a genuine contender. Droughts are made to be broken, and reckon the Giants might have a little bit too much polish for the Cats. Greater Western Sydney by 12 points.

 

GUESS WHO’S BACK: Steve Johnson is back for the Giants for a clash against his old side Geelong on Saturday night. SOURCE: Zimbio.

 

Port Adelaide v Gold Coast

Less said about this the better. The Power had a great win over the Dogs in Ballarat last week, but again it was against a team that is outside the 8 and have shown to be mediocre at best all year.

The Suns have bigger problems than football at the moment, with an off field review underway and the club looking for a new senior coach following the sacking of Rodney Eade earlier this month.

This match should be a straightforward one, the Power expected to tune up for finals with an easy win that will see them secure a home final in the opening week of the finals, the Suns to disappear off in to the night with a whimper.

Gary Ablett again won’t play, and you wouldn’t expect to see him in a Suns jumper again as he intends to head back to Geelong in 2018.

Tom Jonas was suspended for a crude hit on Luke Dalhaus off the ball last week, and deservedly copped a two week holiday. Jasper Pittard comes back to strengthen the defence.

Wouldn’t be watching this game Saturday night, and I doubt many will, particularly with the Cats-Giants match on at the same time. Port Adelaide by 45 points.

Essendon v Fremantle

Never has a team metaphorically cried out: “We give up!” as much as Fremantle in the past fortnight. Beaten by 104 in consecutive matches against Sydney and Richmond, Ross Lyon’s men are limping to the finish line, keen for the season to finish as soon as possible.

The torture for players and fans alike will come to an end this Sunday, with one last fixture against Essendon at Docklands to come. The off-season will once again be a big one for the Dockers, with the need for more key position talent to compete with the best teams in the competition.

The Dons simply have to defeat the beaten up Dockers in this fixture to secure the 8^th spot on the table and a subsequent finals berth, and it’s hard to see them losing this one based on recent performances from the men in purple.

Jobe Watson comes back for his last hurrah as an AFL footballer, the son of a gun hoping that his career extends at least another fortnight in to finals. Travis Colyer is also back, Josh Green’s season over with a foot injury and Craig Bird dropped.

Lachie Neale, Jon Griffin, Tom Sheridan, Sam Collins and Shane Kersten all get one last chance to impress in 2017 for Fremantle, Cam McCarthy, Griffin Logue, Ryan Nyhuis and Josh Deluca all dropped with ruckman Sean Darcy suspended.

Simply can’t see Fremantle offering much of a yelp here, they probably care more about their end of season trip. Bombers to win a book a place in September. Essendon by 43 points.

 

DIRTY DAY: Fremantle’s Hayden Ballantyne and Josh Deluca contemplate another dire defeat against Richmond last Sunday. SOURCE: Triple M.

 

Richmond v St Kilda

Take a deep breath Richmond fans. You are on the cusp of the top four. All you have to do is beat St Kilda, and the spot is yours. What’s that? You lost to the Saints by 67 points in round 16? Oh dear.

Surely they won’t replicate that performance this time with so much to play for, but with Richmond who can ever be sure? They were superb in Perth against a poor Fremantle side, Jacob Townsend the surprise packet with 6 majors in his first game of the season, Dustin Martin further enhancing his Brownlow credentials with yet another best on ground performance.

As expected St Kilda defeated North Melbourne at Docklands, a tearful Nick Riewoldt farewelling the ground he has had so much success on with a victory.

While they can still make the finals it appears unlikely due to their poor percentage and the Bombers expected to beat Fremantle, meaning this will be the man known universally as ‘Roo’ will most likely play his 336^th and final AFL match on the home of football against his cousin Jack’s Richmond side in this fixture.

The real challenges start now for the Tigers, who despite having an outstanding season carry the tag of ‘chokers’ come finals, having lost three elimination finals from 2013-15 and failed to win a final since 2001.

Finishing top four will give them the best chance you would think, and I think they will secure their 15^th win of a magnificent home and away campaign. Richmond by 22 points.

West Coast v Adelaide

Get the tissues ready, West Coast fans. It’s going to be a day of farewells. A farewell to Matt Priddis and Sam Mitchell, and a farewell to Subiaco Oval after 31 seasons at the home of football in Western Australia.

They will also most likely be farewelling their season, unlikely to push in to the top 8 even with a surprise win over top of the table Adelaide. Both teams are likely to know of their fate before this game commences, which could mean the game goes through the motions.

If the Giants lose to the Cats it will guarantee the Crows the McClelland Shield for the Minor Premiership, and render the result of this match meaningless. Should the Dons beat Fremantle, West Coast will also have nothing to gain from the match other than to send their retiring stars out on a winning note.

Josh Kennedy also has a Coleman medal at stake, leading by 4 goals going in to the final round. He has kicked a staggering 30 goals in his six games since returning from a calf injury, and is by far and away the best forward in the game currently.

His normal adversary Daniel Talia will miss the match due to an ankle injury, while Crows captain Taylor Walker has also been ruled out with a toe concern.

Mark LeCras is the only inclusion for the Eagles for what could also be his last AFL game, Josh Hill dropped after just 6 disposals last week against the Giants.

It will be an emotional day for the Eagles, but I can’t see them beating the Crows here. Adelaide by 18 points.

 

ABSENT FROM DUTY: Crows captain Taylor Walker will miss his team’s trip West with a toe injury. SOURCE: Triple M.

 

By Jacob Landsmeer.

Jacob Landsmeer is a sports broadcaster on 91.3 Sport FM in Perth. He blogs here at zombiecrowscricket. Follow him on Twitter: @jlandsme_93

AFL Round 22 Preview: Crows and Swans Face off in Potential Grand Final Match Up

Adelaide and Sydney both made the top 15 most liveable cities in the world for 2017 during the week.

Adelaide came in at number five on the list, while Sydney was not far behind in 11^th. Sure, it might not have to do anything with football, but it’s a nice little victory of sorts for the state of South Australia ahead of this must win game against the Swans at the Adelaide Oval on Friday night.

The Crows look set to record a top two finish and sew up the coveted double chance as well as two home finals, putting them in a seemingly impregnable position come September.

The Swans have remarkably battled back from the brink to push for a top four spot, only losing to Hawthorn (twice) since round 6 this season. Their demolition of Fremantle seemed to act as an ominous reminder to the competition of how good they can be, the form team of the competition with only a fortnight remaining until finals.

The Crows sit top of the ladder, 6 points clear and a win here should be enough to sew up the minor premiership, a fitting reward for their efforts in the home and away season. While of course it counts for squat come the first week of finals, they still appear the team to beat.

This match could very well be a Grand Final preview if form is anything to go by, and it’s great to see two interstate teams get the chance to shine under Friday night lights in the city of churches. It isn’t all about the Victorian teams after all. Here is a complete preview of round 22 of the 2017 AFL season.

 

HAPPY MEMORIES: Lance Franklin and George Hewett celebrate a goal in the 2016 Semi-Final victory over Adelaide at the SCG. SOURCE: ABC. 

 

Adelaide v Sydney

A Friday night blockbuster not featuring a Victorian team! Who let this happen? Sack the fixtures co-ordinator!

You might be wondering how many times a Friday night match has featured two interstate clubs since 2000. The answer? Twice. A Western Derby in 2005, and round 23 last season when the Crows hosted the Eagles at the Adelaide Oval. Welcome back to the 1970’s. This simply has to change moving forward in to 2018 and beyond.

Okay, enough complaining. This is going to be a belter. 1^st v 5^th on the table, but arguably the two form teams of the competition going head to head in front of a packed crowd at Adelaide Oval under lights. A final two weeks early. Just what we like.

Both teams appear settled and ready to hit their straps in September, so this one should go right down to the wire. The Crows go in unchanged for the second time in as many weeks, despite captain Taylor Walker (ahead of game 150) and Rory Sloane having injury doubts over them during the week after injuries sustained against Essendon last Saturday.

The Swans have a major inclusion in captain Josh Kennedy, youngster Nic Newman making way. Newman has been dropped, despite having a knee concern sustained during the 104 point demolition of Fremantle last Saturday.

Lance Franklin looks ready to rip a game apart having kicked four majors last week against the Dockers, the out of contract Jake Lever set for the match up on the Swans and former Hawthorn superstar.

The match will also see Kurt Tippett return to Adelaide to play his old side for the first time, in what is sure to be a frosty reception for the man who played 104 games for the Crows from 2008-12 before walking out on the club.

Really tough game to tip, both teams capable on their day. Going with the Crows at home in a tight one. Wouldn’t surprise me of the Swans get up, Adelaide coming off back to back six day breaks. Adelaide by 4 points.

Western Bulldogs v Port Adelaide

Eureka! We’ve finally got a game in Ballarat! In August. It’s going to be cold. Really cold. A top of just 9 degrees is expected on Saturday, the odds on a calf/hamstring injury pinging surely paying $1.001 in this one.

It’s going to be a hot contest though, with the Bulldogs striving to keep their finals hopes alive and the Power aiming to secure a home elimination final. The match has been sold out for several months, and no doubt the locals can look forward to a high quality game.

The Doggies have gone all out for this must win contest, recalling Norm Smith medallist Jason Johannisen and premiership team mate Dale Morris, Mitch Wallis omitted and Jack Redpath given perhaps the worst 3 game suspension in the history of the game for his ‘hit’ on Phil Davis. MRP, give me a spell.

The Power welcome back star first year player Sam Powell-Pepper for the clash, as well as youngsters Riley Bonner (2^nd game) and Todd Marshall, who will make his debut for the club. Brendan Ah Chee and Jarman Impey have both been dropped, Jasper Pittard set to miss with a calf injury.

Robert Murphy joined the list of retirees during the week, the 35 year old veteran of 310 games calling it a day on Tuesday. The man known universally as ‘Bob’ is one of the most loved figures in the game and can retire knowing he left nothing in the tank. One of the enduring AFL images of the modern era is Luke Beveridge’s selfless decision to hand across his premiership medallion to Murphy after last year’s Grand Final, which Murphy would later hand back.

Sadly it doesn’t appear Murphy will have the opportunity to win one in his own right, with the Bulldogs needing to win both of their remaining matches in 2017 to make finals and then to repeat last year’s heroics to go back to back.

Ken Hinkley’s men can end their dream here, as they look to prove to the competition they deserve to be considered a genuine threat come finals. Their body of work so far would suggest they are not, but they need to find a way to get past the Dogs here on a cold Ballarat afternoon.

Another tough game to tip, both teams flaky at best throughout 2017. Might lean towards the Dogs, as they might be that little bit more hungry after an emotional week with the retirement of their skipper. Western Bulldogs by 11 points.

 

CALLING IT A DAY: Bob Murphy announces his retirement alongside coach Luke Beveridge on Tuesday. SOURCE: Bendigo Advertiser.

 

Collingwood v Geelong

Who was silly enough tip Richmond to beat the Cats last week? Not me. Geelong don’t lose consecutive games at home, and the Tigers aren’t that good. The umpires also help their cause at the Cattery no end, and I’m not even Damien Hardwick. Talk about a protected species.

The Cats had a particularly impressive victory last week considering the stars they had out, missing Joel Selwood, Tom Hawkins and Mitch Duncan for the clash. In front of 33,000 fans, the Cats held their nerve to beat the Tigers, Harry Taylor starring in a defensive forward role with four majors on Alex Rance.

The Pies are finishing the season full of running, despite their loss to Port Adelaide last Sunday. Injuries continue to mount, Jordan De Goey set to miss the remainder of the season with a hip complaint, Alex Fasolo out with a shoulder injury and Tyson Goldsack sore.

With Nathan Buckley’s job on the line, you get the sense the Pies may have more to play for here, and they have a good record against Chris Scott’s men in recent times having won 6 of the past 8 encounters.

Geelong welcome back Mitch Duncan from suspension as well as teenage sensation Wylie Buzza (what a name!), losing Rhys Stanley (calf) and Brandon Parfitt (omitted). Scott Selwood will play his 150^th game of AFL football and looms as a key figure in this match, particularly in the absence of his older brother.

The Pies beat Geelong earlier in the season when the Cats were in better form, I’m just not sure I trust them enough to tip them this time around. Who would want to be leading a tipping competition with two rounds to go! Geelong by 14 points.

Greater Western Sydney v West Coast

Look out, the Giants are on the fly. After a poor patch of form mid-season, Leon Cameron’s men appear to be having a better run on the injury front in the run to the finals, playing better football as a result.

It was a fantastic performance against the Bulldogs at Docklands last Friday night, after a frenetic opening half the Giants settled better after half time, assuming control and kicking nine goals to one to secure a 48 point win.

Toby Greene was the major talking point out of the game after his boot collected Bulldog Luke Dalhaus high. He was fined for the incident but is free to face the West Coast Eagles in this round 22 clash, having played a starring role in his club’s first win over the Eagles in round 10 this year at Subiaco Oval.

The AFL’s newest club welcomes back a wealth of experience for this contest, Adam Tomlinson, Jeremy Cameron, Devon Smith and Shane Mumford all back in to the side, making an already difficult task that little bit tougher for the Eagles.

Adam Simpson’s men were lucky to escape with a 17 point win against lowly placed Carlton last Saturday night, finally running out a game and winning a last quarter. They have Josh Kennedy to thank in main, the former Blue kicking 6 majors and taking the lead in the Coleman Medal.

To have any chance of beating the Giants Kennedy simply must fire again up forward, Luke Shuey needing to have an impact in the middle of the ground as he did last year when he racked up 38 disposals in his best game of AFL football to date.

Unfortunately the Eagles have been a yo-yo side in the second half of the season, going win-loss-win-loss-win-loss since their mid-season bye. Since they had a win last week and they are facing the might of the young Giants on their home patch I’m tipping that record to continue. Greater Western Sydney by 37 points.

 

A GIANT IN: Shane Mumford returns to lead the ruck for the Giants on Saturday against West Coast. SOURCE: SEN.

 

Gold Coast v Essendon

Are the Gold Coast on holidays yet? They are certainly playing like it. 30 minutes of great football in the Q-Clash last week was followed by 90 minutes of rubbish, the Lions capitalising to beat their local rivals by 58 points.

The talk continues on whether Gary Ablett will remain at the club in 2018, reports this week suggesting he is as good as gone and has played his last game for the club. The year can’t end quickly enough for the beleaguered club that is arguably the worst team in the competition at this stage of the season.

They face an Essendon team with everything to play for in this fixture, the Dons needing to win both of their games to qualify for finals in 2017 and extend the careers of Jobe Watson and James Kelly, the latter announcing his retirement during the week after 310 games, 273 of those with the Cats with 3 premierships along the way.

Watson will miss this clash after being rested, Matthew Leuenburger (ankle) out with injury as well as star defender Michael Hurley, who has hurt his calf. Ben Howlett, Travis Colyer and Matt Dea all lose their place in the team that lost to the Crows last Saturday night.

Zach Merrett returns from a one game suspension along with Mark Baguley, Tom Bellchambers, Michael Hartley, Craig Bird and debutaunt Josh Begley, pick 31 in last year’s draft.

The Suns have also made 6 changes, the most notable being Jarryd Lyons who is out with an ankle injury. Pearce Hanley at least covers his absence as one of the six inclusions.

Not expecting a high quality contest here, or a big crowd in attendance at Carrara. It’s one of those late season games that will be forgotten quicker than the game is played. Bombers should have a nice profitable trip North. Essendon by 36 points.

Carlton v Hawthorn

The Blues must be sick of talking about competitive losses. Again they were better than serviceable against the Eagles in what could have been a daunting road trip, but ultimately fell short despite scores being level at three quarter time.

Sadly for all of their improvement in 2017 the Blues sit in 17^th spot, just percentage off bottom of the ladder having failed to win a game since round 13. Like 2016 the end of the season has been a tough grind for Brendon Bolton’s team, and they will need to show more as a football club in 2018 or risk wasting another season in rebuild mode.

The Hawks are still a mathematical finals chance after their win over North Melbourne that was about as run of the mill as they come, but impressive all the same. Boom recruit Jaeger O’Meara returns from a knee injury that has plagued his first season at the club (and his last two years at the Suns) in for his first match since round 6.

Josh Gibson announced his immediate retirement from the game on Tuesday, the three time premiership player and two time best and fairest unable to overcome a groin injury to feature again in the brown and gold. Having been a serviceable player with North Melbourne, Gibson became one of the premier defenders of the competition at the Hawks in his 160 games for the club.

Irishman Ciaran Byrne is the only inclusion for the Blues, the retiring Dennis Armfield dropped after a poor match back in his home state of Western Australia last week.

The Hawks have hit a good patch of form late in the season and regardless of whether they make finals in 2017 can be proud of their fightback after a dismal start. They should account for the Blues here. Hawthorn by 35 points.

 

CALLING IT QUITS: Popular defender Josh Gibson retired during the week as a three time premiership player and two time best and fairest at Hawthorn. SOURCE: The West Australian.

 

Melbourne v Brisbane

The Dees are there! Finals! Wait, what? There are two games to go? Oh well they are going to make finals anyway. As long as they beat Brisbane. Lowly, 18^th placed Brisbane. Surely they will cruise to a win? Nothing is straightforward for the Demons. Just ask their supporters.

While no doubt Melbourne fans are brimming with excitement at the prospect of playing September football, they probably woke up in cold sweats all week after yet another nightmare of losing to the Lions in this fixture.

Brisbane won’t be easybeats, as they have shown throughout this season despite being bottom of the table. Their victory over Gold Coast was their most clinical in 2017, after a poor first quarter they pulverised their local rival and kicked their highest score (142) since round 16, 2007, the day Jonathan Brown kicked 10 goals against Carlton.

Dayne Beams showed that when fit he is one of the elite players of the competition with 4 goals and 32 disposals in a best on ground performance, Tom Rockliff, Lewis Taylor and Stefan Martin also featuring prominently.

Melbourne held their nerve after a brilliant start to defeat the Saints, who appeared to have all the momentum early in the last quarter before running out of puff. Mitch Hannan was an unlikely hero with two clutch goals, while the return of Angus Brayshaw heartened Dees fans no end.

The home side loses co-captain Jack Viney to a foot injury, having been spotted on crutches mid-week. While he is expected to be back for the round 23 clash with Collingwood, his impact may be limited from here on in with the injury he has battled throughout the season.

The Lions have won 3 of their past 5 matches against the Demons, but Simon Goodwin’s men have too much to play for here to drop this one. Melbourne by 24 points.

 

GUS AND DETERMINATION: Angus Brayshaw made a successful return to AFL football against St Kilda in round 21. SOURCE: The West Australian.

 

St Kilda v North Melbourne

Do I have to write about this game? Ugh. These two teams played one of their worst Friday night games in recent memory back in round 13, and I’m not expecting much better from either team here.

The Saints finals chances appeared to end last week then they played a poor opening half against Melbourne, fighting back late but to no avail. It means Nick Riewoldt has two games left in his glittering career, this fixture against the Roos and one last chance to run out on to the MCG against Richmond next Sunday.

North’s sole aim from here should be to get the ball in to the hands of Ben Brown and give him a chance of winning the Coleman Medal that appeared to be taken away from him when he was concussed by Brodie Grundy a fortnight ago. That and avoiding the wooden spoon would mean this season has not been a complete waste.

Watching this game would be like going to a distant relative’s birthday party you haven’t seen for years. A complete waste of time. Saints will probably win, but who can even be sure? St Kilda by 27 points.

Fremantle v Richmond

This is it for Fremantle at Subiaco Oval. Game 265 at the venue will be the club’s last, boasting a 152-112 win/loss record at the home of WA Football since the club’s inception in 1995.

Some of the great moments for the club at Subi include the 2013 preliminary final win over Sydney, Matthew Pavlich’s last game in 2016, and the goals after the siren from Jeff Farmer and Justin Longmuir in 2002 and 2005 respectively.

The Dockers will be hoping for one last memorable moment at the ground on Sunday against Richmond, who had a dispiriting loss to fellow finals contender Geelong at Kardinia Park last Saturday. Having had 8 days to sit on it by the time the ball is bounced in the final game of round 22, Damien Hardwick’s men will no doubt be keen to atone for their efforts against the Cats.

Fremantle lose the services of Lachie Neale due to a knee injury, having battled through the 104 point loss at the hands of the Swans due to the ailment, recording just 9 disposals on a largely forgettable afternoon for he and his club.

Boom recruit Harley Bennell will finally debut for the Dockers, having failed to play a game since crossing to the club at the end of 2015. Persistent calf problems and off field indiscretions have plagued the former Gold Coast Sun, who has obvious talent but lacks the professionalism to match.

Despite failing to lay a tackle in WAFL ranks in his four matches for Peel Thunder and barely hitting top pace playing exclusively out of forward 50, Dockers fans must temper their expectations of Bennell here, although it serves as a nice preview of what might be in 2018 for Fremantle.

Richmond lose speedster Josh Caddy due to a hamstring injury sustained early in the round 22 loss to the Cats, and will need more out of smalls Dan Butler and Jason Castagna who registered just 7 disposals between them last Saturday.

The vast expanses should suit the Tigers and their running brigade, particularly Brownlow Medal favourite Dustin Martin, who had just 21 disposals but did push forward to kick two goals last week. As a football fan it would be great to see ‘Dusty’ go head to head with 2015 Brownlow medallist Nat Fyfe, but that appears an unlikely match up.

No doubt the nostalgia of the afternoon will lift Fremantle in their last match at Subi, but the Tigers are pushing for a top four spot and simply must win this. Should be a good game to finish the round. Richmond by 13 points.

 

LONG AWAITED DEBUT: Former Gold Coast Sun Harley Bennell makes his debut for Fremantle on Sunday. SOURCE: BeyondTheGame.TV.

 

By Jacob Landsmeer.

Jacob Landsmeer is a sports broadcaster on 91.3 Sport FM in Perth. He blogs here at zombiecrowscricket. Follow him on Twitter: @jlandsme_93

 

 

 

AFL Round 21 Preview: Dogs and Giants set to Renew Rivalry after Week of Retirements

It’s reaching that time of year. For some teams, the season is winding down nearing a disappointing and underwhelming conclusion. For others, the thought of finals is strong, the dream of premiership glory still alive.

And for a select few, the end of the season is the end of the finish line. The retiring class of 2017 has been as good as we have ever seen, some of the stars of the game calling time on their illustrious careers.

Jobe Watson, Matthew Boyd and Steve Johnson were among the names who called it a day during the week, Sam Mitchell, Luke Hodge, Nick Riewoldt and Matt Priddis some of the other stars of their generation announcing 2017 would be their final year football earlier in the year.

Retirement press conferences are commonplace at this time of the season, but it seemed there was a retirement an hour this week, many written and spoken tributes published on stars of the game and their glittering careers.

While both Boyd and Johnson calling it a day was not a surprise, both veterans at 34 years of age and probably guilty of playing on a season too long. But their teams meet at Docklands on Friday night, and while Boyd will not be out there it is a big match for his side, the Bulldogs back in the top 8 and a good chance of staying there permanently should they defeat the Giants.

GWS seemingly turned a corner against Melbourne in Canberra last weekend, recovering from a slow start to dispose of the Dees in clinical fashion. Boom recruit Brett Deledio got through his first match for the club unscathed, and with the prospect of more stars returning in the coming weeks, Leon Cameron’s men look primed for a tilt at a maiden premiership.

The Bulldogs and Giants are building a strong rivalry, the foundations laid in last year’s breathtaking preliminary final at Spotless Stadium that the Dogs won by a goal. The AFL’s newest club responded in kind in round 6 in Canberra, winning a thriller by 2 points. That combined with the infamous Ryan Griffen-Tom Boyd trade of 2014 sees these sides billed as modern rivals.

The two clubs kick off round 21 of the AFL season, the race still on for a coveted top 8 spot. Here is a complete preview of the round.

 

CALLING IT A DAY: Steve Johnson joined the growing list of AFL retirees in 2017 on Thursday. SOURCE: The West Australian. 

 

Western Bulldogs v Greater Western Sydney

Are the Giants back? Are the Bulldogs? We may find out a fair bit more about both teams here.  Luke Beveridge’s men escaped with a narrow victory over the Lions at the Gabba last Saturday, a game that six weeks ago they would have no doubt lost.

Considering their struggles to win in Queensland (it was their first win at the Gabba since 2009) it was a relief that swept over the boys from Whitten Oval come the final siren in round 20.

The win did come at a cost though, star defender Easton Wood injuring his hamstring and set to miss 5-6 weeks. Premiership player Clay Smith loses his place for the third time this season due to poor form, while young Lukas Webb is out of the team after just 6 disposals last week.

Tory Dickson returns to add some x-factor to the forward line for the Dogs, ditto Jake Stringer who has missed the past month with a hamstring injury. Josh Dunkley returns from injury for his first match at AFL level since round 7, his versatility vital to the side.

The Giants lose hulking ruckman Shane Mumford to suspension, while Devon Smith misses due to a knee injury. Jonathan Patton has come up for the game having missed last week’s win over Melbourne with a hamstring niggle, while Toby Greene returns from suspension, having infamously been suspended in the teams round 6 match for a high hit on Josh Dunkley.

The Giants have struggled somewhat under the roof this season, losing to St Kilda on a Friday night in round 7 and suffering a shock loss by a solitary point to Carlton in round 12. In all the Giants have won just 6 times from 16 matches at Docklands, having only won once at the MCG in 11 attempts also.

No doubt their record in Melbourne will improve the more they play at the two venues, but it is an issue they need to address immediately ahead of September.

Like so many games this season, particularly on a Friday night a really tough game to tip. As most of you reading know by now my record on tipping winners in the opening game of the round is pretty horrific, but I think the Giants can record a very important win against their arch rivals in another thriller. Greater Western Sydney by 5 points.

 

MEMORABLE MOMENT: Bulldogs players celebrate their preliminary final win over Greater Western Sydney last year. SOURCE: SEN. 

 

Sydney v Fremantle

LOOK OUT! SYDNEY STEAM TRAIN COMING THROUGH! They are hurtling towards the finals. Having been to Sydney and with most people being aware of their cost of living it wouldn’t be a cheap steam train to hop aboard, but it could be a premiership steam train in two months’ time.

Enough about steam trains. Sydney decimated a Geelong team that started the night minus Patrick Dangerfield and finished it without skipper Joel Selwood due to an ankle injury that has ended his home and away season. In between the Swans reigned supreme, leading basically all night and controlling the match for the most part to win by 46 points.

It was an impressive bounce back to form after a surprise loss to Hawthorn in round 19, a loss that looks all the more surprising after Richmond’s win over the Hawks last Sunday. They return to the SCG for a match against 14^th placed Fremantle, the Dockers fresh off their 8^th win of the season last week against the Gold Coast Suns.

While the ladder and their win loss record may not show it, Ross Lyon’s men have improved in leaps and bounds in 2017, after a diabolical 2016 season that saw the club slump from minor premiers to 16^th on the table. They have found some young talent to help the club push back in to finals, notably Luke Ryan who was magnificent against the Suns, amassing 28 disposals and 16 marks to finally receive a Rising Star nomination.

They head to the SCG with some confidence, having won 2 of their past 5 games at the venue and drawn another. Young Sean Darcy has been recalled to lead the ruck having been rested last week at the expense of Jonathon Griffin, while Matt Taberner gets a chance to salvage his fledgling AFL career, youngster Josh Deluca also making the trip to Sydney for his third AFL match. Brady Grey (hamstring), Hayden Crozier (concussion) are forced omissions for the match, joining Griffin as exclusions.

Sydney go in unchanged, and appear primed to win their 12^th match of the season. A reminder they were 0-6. What a story it could be if they go all the way in 2017. Sydney by 34 points.

Geelong v Richmond

All of a sudden the Cats look beatable at home. That’s good news for Richmond and their supporters, who have done nothing but complain about having to play Simonds Stadium for the past 8 weeks.

I’m sorry, but when do you get to decide where to get to play a match that is an away game for your club? Suck it up buttercups. If you weren’t so putrid in 2016 the game would have been at the MCG. But you have no right to request a fixture change for an away game. It’s a Geelong home game, and it’s at Geelong’s home ground, which is Kardinia Park. End. Of. Story. Right, we all good now sulking Tigers fans? Good.

The funny part about of all this is, Richmond will go in to this match almost favourites after Geelong’s capitulation at the same venue last Friday night. Inspirational captain Joel Selwood will miss with an ankle injury, while key players Tom Hawkins and Mitch Duncan were suspended for brain snaps against the Swans.

The Cats are oh so hard to beat at Kardinia Park, and have won 72 of their past 79 matches at the venue, an incredible record. Patrick Dangerfield returns from suspension, a brilliant call from ‘Danger’ and his club not to challenge the verdict of the MRP with the benefit of hindsight.

Inconsistent former Saint Rhys Stanley gets a chance to stand up in Hawkins absence, while livewire pair Steven Motlop and Daniel Menzel will add some pace and excitement to the Cats side.

Richmond have a major inclusion of their own for the clash, Jack Riewoldt back after missing  a fortnight with an eye complaint. Anthony Miles loses his place after one of the harrowing clangers of the season last week, when he lairised in to an open goal only to be taken off his kick on the goal line.

Tough one to tip, a massive game for both clubs and their premiership credentials. If the Tigers win, they are essentially assured of a top four spot. Imagine saying that at the start of the season.

Unfortunately I don’t think they will beat the Cats. But they won’t get many better opportunities than this. Geelong by 14 points.

 

SIDELINED: Cats skipper Joel Selwood will miss the rest of the home and away season with an ankle injury. SOURCE: ABC. 

 

Brisbane Lions v Gold Coast

Quiet week on the Gold Coast then. Coach sacked, co-captain out for the season with a knee injury, a former captain seemingly on the way out of the club and out of the team for this Q-Clash.  Gulp. Good luck Dean Solomon.

The Suns made the call to sack senior coach Rodney Eade on Tuesday, the former Swans and Western Bulldogs coach only able to win 16 of his 63 matches in charge of the expansion club.

It seemed an inevitable call such is how the season has played out for Gold Coast, but now attention turns to others involved at the club. How many assistants will be moved on? How many players will lose their place on the list? There is more uncertainty than certainty surrounding the Queensland based club at the moment.

A young Brisbane side will sense a great opportunity to pounce on their beleaguered opponents here, the match at the Gabba and the Lions coming off a hard fought defeat at the hands of Western Bulldogs last week.

Chris Fagan’s men will be somewhat disappointed they let the game slip from their grasp, considering they led by 11 points at the final change. This looms as a perfect chance to make up for that disappointment, the Lions having won 8 of the 13 Q-Clashes played between the clubs.

Tom Lynch’s season is over after being booked in for knee surgery during the week, while Gary Ablett may have played his last game for the club, again ruled out with a hamstring injury. Jarrad Grant and Mitch Hallahan have lost their place in the side.

Jarryd Lyons and David Swallow return to strengthen the midfield, while Ben Ainsworth and Callum Ah Chee add some pace and excitement to the team in what has been a tough energy sapping week.

Jarrod Harbrow and Matt Rosa both reach their 200^th game milestone, having started their careers at other clubs but become important players at the Suns.

The Lions have recalled Michael Close and Sam Mayes, Josh Schache dropped and Alex Witherden missing with a hamstring injury.

Q-Clashes have been underwhelming in recent years, and while you often see clubs win the week after the coach has been sacked I don’t think the Suns will get it done here. Brisbane to give themselves a chance of avoiding the wooden spoon. Brisbane by 21 points.

 

ROCKET TAKES OFF: Rodney Eade was sacked as coach of the Gold Coast Suns on Tuesday. SOURCE: The Chronicle. 

 

Essendon v Adelaide

All good things must come to an end. And the end seems to be coming for a number of AFL stars this season. Dons star Jobe Watson called it a day on Wednesday, his retirement effective at the end of the season. In one of the most engaging retirement press conferences in recent memory, Watson compared his love for game to that of a man who takes back a cheating partner, saying “you may love them, but it’s never the same again.“

It seemed an apt way of describing Watson’s plight at the latter stages of his career, one of the figureheads at the club during the infamous Supplements Saga as captain of the side and the Bombers star player.

Awarded the 2012 Brownlow Medal but stripped of it in December last year due to being found guilty of taking prohibited substance AOD 9604 during that season, Watson also missed the 2016 season due to a WADA suspension, as well as the second half of 2015 through injury. He has returned to the AFL fold this year, and while he has battled at different times he has put together a fantastic career.

Son of club legend Tim, Jobe deserves to be remembered in a similar light, carving out his own career and eventually stepping out of his father’s shadow. He will play game 218 of his career on Saturday night against top of the table Adelaide at Docklands, another important game as the Dons look to secure a finals berth.

They have some key outs for the fixture under the roof however, notably electric small forward Orazio Fantasia (hamstring) and Zach Merrett (suspension), as well as reliable defender Mark Baguley (rested), ruckman Tom Bellchambers (foot) and Michael Hartley (omitted).

Matthew Leuenburger returns to lead the ruck division, veteran James Kelly back after a week’s rest along with number one draft pick Andrew McGrath. Matt Dea and Jayden Laverde round out the inclusions.

The Crows are unchanged, a settled, well drilled and organised outfit coming off an 84 point obliteration of arch rivals Port Adelaide in a ridiculously one sided Showdown last Sunday, a win here essentially sewing up a top 2 finish and two home qualifying finals. With that in mind and with the way they are playing, it’s hard to see them not making the Grand Final.

The battle of the livewires at either end of the ground in Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti and Eddie Betts will headline this game, but the Crows will get the job done for me. Adelaide by 21 points.

West Coast v Carlton

West Coast are a footballing car crash. You know what is going to happen, but you can’t help but watch anyway. Yet another last quarter lead slipped through their fingers against St Kilda at Docklands last Sunday, with everything to play for they simply didn’t want it enough yet again.

Up by as much as 14 points in the last term, St Kilda rallied to win by 8 points, West Coast now most likely requiring 2 if not 3 wins from their last 3 matches to secure a finals berth.

They face a Carlton side that has been nuisance value all season, pushing Essendon to the brink last week and matching it with most teams they have encountered this season. The Blues burst out of the blocks in the wet against Fremantle at the same venue earlier this year, kicking the games opening four goals before the Dockers steadied.

With more rain forecast on Saturday the Blues could reduce the game to a scrap, the Eagles rarely experiencing wet weather football in 2017. It may also rain on Josh Kennedy’s goalkicking parade, the two time reigning Coleman Medallist having kicked 20 goals in his past four matches on return from a calf injury.

Incredibly he remains a chance of winning a hat trick of Coleman Medals, just two behind leader Joe Daniher going in to the round. He has a good record against his old side, having kicked a bag of 10 the last time the teams met at the venue in 2015. Reborn defender Liam Jones looms as the likely match up, having done a terrific job on Daniher last week.

The Eagles have recalled outgoing veteran and 2014 Brownlow Medallist Matt Priddis after opting to leave him out of the match against the Saints, Lewis Jetta and Nathan Vardy also back, Jetta to play his 150^th AFL game. Chris Masten, Will Schofield and Malcolm Karpany are all casualties of the poor performance last week.

The Blues have made one change, young defender Caleb Marchbank out with an arm injury replaced by Tom Williamson. Matthew Kruezer is in dominant form, and if he can combine with experienced midfielders Bryce Gibbs, Marc Murphy and Dale Thomas, Carlton may be able to cause an upset in the West.

Popular clubman Dennis Armfield announced his retirement from AFL football during the week, the native West Aussie able to celebrate his hard working career in front of family and friends on Saturday night.

Unfortunately I don’t think he will be singing the team song at the end of the night, the Eagles will get a win that keeps their finals hopes alive. Not that they look like any chance of making it on last week’s effort. West Coast by 37 points.

 

FADING FAST: West Coast appear set to miss the finals in 2017 after yet another interstate loss to St Kilda last Sunday. SOURCE: Perth Now. 

 

Melbourne v St Kilda

It’s round 21, and I’m still not convinced by either of these sides. Yet both are still in the hunt for the finals. Yep, it’s been that kind of season.

When these two teams met in round one, it was seen as a great early test to see which of these up and coming sides would have what it takes to make the step up in 2017 to qualify for September football.

The Dees were impressive in that round one fixture, winning by five goals, but have been less impressive the longer the season has gone on, injuries and inconsistency striking at inopportune moments.

Back to back losses to North Melbourne and Greater Western Sydney have put them back outside the top 8, the shock loss to the then 17^th placed Roos looming as a potential circuit breaker for their season.

The Saints had a memorable come from behind win over the Eagles last Sunday to keep their own finals hopes alive, this fixture essentially an elimination final 3 weeks early. Nick Riewoldt is a casualty from the victory, concussed in the dying moments and ruled out mid-week. Tellingly, the Saints haven’t won without both Riewoldt and Leigh Montagna since 2005.

Sam Gilbert and Tom Hickey headline the list of potential inclusions for the Saints, while Angus Brayshaw will play his first game since round 2 for the Demons due to several concussions. Sam Frost and Christian Salem have both been dropped after poor showings in the nation’s capital last Saturday against the Giants.

Tough game to tip, again probably easier to say why either team will lose this match rather than win it. But the Dees might just have a little bit more grunt and polish to account for the Saints. Melbourne by 9 points.

 

Hawthorn v North Melbourne

The finals dream is over for Hawthorn. It’s been over for a while for the Roos. But if North Melbourne could please play with better intensity and remember how to hit a target this week? God they were horrid against Collingwood last Saturday night. Name a Game have actually refused to even burn a copy of the game to a DVD disc it was that bad.

The Hawks were made to pay for a slow start against the Tigers, unable to make up the ground they gave up in the opening 30 minutes of football and playing catch up all day. It was a disappointing way to mark Jarryd Roughead’s 250^th match, but all in all the second half of the season has been an improvement from Alastair Clarkson and his team.

The Roos are blooding as many youngsters as possible in the last few weeks of a tough season, but at least the club and their supporters (I assume they have more than one despite no evidence to suggest as much going on North home games this year). A ‘Tasmania Derby’ looms here, this match at Hawthorn’s home away from home at York Park in Launceston.

Luke Hodge returns from a one week suspension, now just three weeks away from the finish line in what has been a glittering career. It will be his last match in Launceston, having played in 45 of the club’s 55 matches at the venue to date. No doubt Hawks fans in Tassie will flock to see the retiring champ in action one last time.

The Roos have dropped Nick Larkey after another quiet game, but at least he registered an AFL possession this time. Jed Anderson could face his old side in this fixture, Kayne Turner, Cameron Zurhaar and Jy Simpkin other potential inclusions.

Not expecting too much from this game, but hopefully the Roos can take it up to the Hawks. Hawthorn with a late season consolation victory. Hawthorn by 26 points.

 

LIKELY TO PLAY: Ben Brown appears set to face Hawthorn in Launceston on Sunday after a nasty concussion last Saturday against Collingwood. SOURCE: AFL Feeds. 

 

Port Adelaide v Collingwood

Port Adelaide are the worst 5^th placed team in the history of the sport at this stage of a season. It sounds brutal, but their catalogue of work suggests it’s true. In the biggest game of their 2017 campaign and against their arch cross town rival, the Power weren’t just smashed by the Crows, they were obliterated.

81 inside 50’s to 31 and 40 scoring shots to 11 don’t even accurately reflect the dominance of Adelaide in the match, who should have won by a far greater margin than 84 points. It left Ken Hinkley and his team embarrassed, their finals credentials in tatters despite the fact they should qualify at the very least.

Hinkley has swung the axe at the selection table, dropping forwards Aaron Young and Angus Monfries as well as versatile big man Jackson Trengrove. Jack Hombsch’s stop-start finish to the season continues as he misses with a hip concern.

Collingwood lose three important players, Brodie Grundy suspended for a controversial tackle on Roo Ben Brown, Levi Greenwood done for the year with a knee injury and Daniel Wells out with a quad concern.

Big American Mason Cox will lead the ruck for the Pies, Port big man Paddy Ryder no doubt keen to avenge his poor Showdown performance that saw his opponent Sam Jacobs win the best on ground medal. You would think big Mase will now a bit more about the art of ruckwork at the AFL level by the end of the day.

The Power have called upon speed at the selection table, Jake Neade, Matthew White, Brendon Ah Chee and most importantly Chad Wingard all in the squad. Collingwood could hand a debut to Josh Daicos, who appeared set to make his debut a fortnight ago but should get a look in here.

Unfortunately the task is just a little too steep for the Pies here for me, without their premier big man in Brodie Grundy, captain Scott Pendlebury and key midfielders Wells and Greenwood. The Power will win, but not change anyone’s perception of them in the process. Port Adelaide by 35 points.

 

POWER FAILURE: Port Adelaide players look on after their 84 point defeat at the hands of Adelaide last Sunday. SOURCE: The Advertiser. 

 

By Jacob Landsmeer.

Jacob Landsmeer is a sports broadcaster on 91.3 Sport FM in Perth. He blogs here at zombiecrowscricket. Follow him on Twitter: @jlandsme_93

AFL Round 20 Preview: Can the Cats Beat the Swans Without Dangerfield?

Geelong and Sydney are two of the most successful clubs of this millennium. The Swans have won two of the 17 premierships on offer, playing in 5 Grand Finals. The Cats have won 3 flags of their own, playing in 4 Grand Finals and have made it to at least preliminary final weekend 8 of the past 11 seasons.

Geelong’s most recent preliminary final was against the Swans, the Cats stunned by a 7 goal to nil opening term onslaught that effectively decided the game. This Friday night marks the first contest between the teams since that match, and no doubt Chris Scott’s men have set themselves for revenge.

The match being at Kardinia Park looms as a significant advantage for the Cats, but the Swans are one of the few teams to have beaten the boys in navy blue and white hoops at the Cattery in the past ten years, including their most recent clash in round 16 last year.

Geelong will also be without 2016 Brownlow Medallist Patrick Dangerfield, who has once again been the talk of the football world this week after being handed and subsequently accepting a one match suspension for a dangerous tackle on Matthew Kruezer. It makes Dangerfield ineligible for the 2017 Brownlow Medal.

While he will be back for a crucial round 21 clash with Richmond, it leaves the Cats vulnerable in his absence, particularly with the Swans looking to bounce back from a loss to Hawthorn last Friday night.

It’s all set up for a cracking clash to start round 20 of the 2017 AFL season. Here is a complete preview.

 

DANGER GAME, DANGER GONE: Patrick Dangerfield misses his first match in a Cats jumper due to suspension this Friday night against Sydney. SOURCE: Geelong Advertiser.

 

Geelong v Sydney

Just when it seems there is some certainty in this bizarre yet brilliant season, there isn’t. It’s like a David Lynch film. You think you have worked it out, then you realise you have no idea and have completely misunderstood everything you have just seen. Watch Lost Highway, it’s even odder than this season of football.

Sydney return to Victoria for the second successive week, this time facing Geelong down the highway at Kardinia Park. Last week’s loss to Hawthorn was disappointing, but how vital that result was for the Swans season may depend on what happens here.

A win will see it put down as a small blip on the radar, while a second successive loss will have people questioning whether the boys from Bondi have run out of petrol tickets after a remarkable resurgence from a 0-6 start.

They will have to beat the Cats on their home patch without captain Josh Kennedy, who picked up a hamstring injury in his 200^th game last Friday against the Hawks. Sam Naismith is out with an abdominal strain, youngsters Dan Robinson and Jordan Foote dropped.

Talented yet inconsistent trio Sam Reid, Gary Rohan and Kurt Tippett all come back in to the side, important midfielder Jake Lloyd also returning for the visitors.

Geelong of course lose Brownlow medallist Patrick Dangerfield, the Cats first match without ‘Danger’ since he crossed to the Cats at the end of 2015. A reminder that Chris Scott’s men missed the finals that season before Dangerfield joined the club.

A really tough game to tip, with the Cats looking to maintain their stranglehold on a top four spot and the Swans needing another win to keep their head above water with an interstate trip against the Crows still to come.

Going with the Swans, they are one of the few teams who match up well with the Cats at Kardinia Park. Sydney by 9 points.

Greater Western Sydney v Melbourne

Everyone goes on about how frustrating Richmond are to support. But being a Dees fan has to be every bit as infuriating. How do you fail to beat 17^th placed North Melbourne? Particularly when you have a howling breeze going your way in the last term? No such thing as a straightforward day at the office when you are a Melbourne supporter.

It’s not about to get any easier, with the Giants their next opponent in Australia’s capital. It will be Melbourne’s third trip to Manuka Oval to face the AFL’s newest club, having played there previously in 2012 and 2015 for a win and a loss respectively.

The Giants appeared headed for another loss when trailing the Dockers by 15 points at three quarter time at Spotless Stadium last Saturday, but found a way past their plucky opponents thanks to a 5 goal last quarter. As they say, good teams just find a way to win.

Sadly Jeremy Cameron re-injured his hamstring in the victory, ruling him out of the contest. Jonathon Patton remains in some doubt for the match after limping off the training track on Thursday with a similar ailment, leaving the Giants light on for tall targets.

They do welcome back big ruckman Shane Mumford after a week off with an ankle concern, while veteran Steve Johnson is also back after managing his troublesome knee last week.

Former number one draft pick and two time Richmond best and fairest winner Brett Deledio finally debuts for his new club, having missed the first three quarters of the season due to a calf injury. Jacob Hopper adds some depth to the Giants midfield in his first AFL game since round 7.

Melbourne have some big name inclusions of their own, welcoming back co-captain Nathan Jones, ex Crow Bernie Vince and utility Cameron Pedersen.  Corey Maynard makes his debut, younger brother of Collingwood’s Brayden.

Unfortunately Jesse Hogan’s season could be over after a collarbone injury sustained in the four point loss to the Roos, while Jack Trengove and Jay Kennedy-Harris have been dropped. Mitch Hannan has been rested after failing to record a kick last week, which suggests he was probably dropped too but won’t suffer the ignominy of having to play in the VFL.

Expecting the Dees to be really physical here, particularly with Bernie Vince back in the side and with so much to play for. Think the Giants might just sneak past them in a cracking game. Greater Western Sydney by 5 points.

 

LIDS OFF: Former Tiger Brett Deledio finally makes his AFL debut on Saturday at Manuka Oval in Canberra. SOURCE: GWS Giants.

 

Essendon v Carlton

The arch rivals, facing off in the old fashioned Saturday afternoon MCG timeslot. Ah the nostalgia. It’s always hard to know exactly what to expect when these two teams play one another, and recent matches have been won by the underdog.

The Blues secured a memorable win in the wet back in round 3, but Brendon Bolton’s team appears to be suffering a late season fade out similar to last season that will make it hard for the boys from Princes Park to reprise that performance on Saturday.

They are still showing in patches what they will be capable of in a couple of years when it all comes together, but it’s a painfully slow process for Carlton and their supporters. Justin Murphy hurling the ball in the air after the Blues memorable one point preliminary final triumph over the Bombers in 1999 seems light years ago now.

It’s officially resting season down at Essendon, with young and old being given a week to recover. James Kelly and number one draft pick from last year Andrew McGrath set to miss the match. Youngster Jayden Leverde has been dropped, Josh Green, Patrick Ambrose and Ben Howlett all included.

Simon White, David Cunningham, Harry McKay and Tom Williamson all miss through various ailments, Dennis Armfield, Jarrod Pickett, Billie Smedts and Blaine Boekhorst the inclusions.

It’s been a season of improvement for the Blues, but I can’t see them doing the clean sweep against the Dons here. The Bombers are keen to avenge last week’s loss to the Dogs, and simply can’t afford a slip up. Essendon by 32 points.

Brisbane Lions v Western Bulldogs

It might sound silly to say in a season that has yielded just four wins, but this has been a season of improvement for the Lions. Young players have come on in leaps and bounds, and given fans hope that some success may be not too far away.

The 68 point loss to West Coast was encouraging in patches, and while they were never likely to beat the Eagles they matched it with the home side for the first 40 minutes of the match before fading after half time, a young team overwhelmed in what is the longest trip in the competition.

They return home to face a seemingly rejuvenated Western Bulldogs, who played fast, free flowing football in defeating Essendon at Docklands last Sunday. It wasn’t so much the win over a fellow finals contender that impressed onlookers, but the way in which they achieved it.

The Dogs kicked 19 goals on the afternoon, the most they have kicked in a game since round 20, 2015 which suggest their scoring potency may be back, having kicked 16 goals against Gold Coast the in round 18.

Unfortunately they lose Tory Dickson to a quad injury, having been a key contributor in the Dogs win last Sunday with 3 goals. Bob Murphy won’t play, his absence listed as ‘travelling emergency’ on the team sheet. What that means is anyone’s guess, but he won’t be out there to lead the troops in to action at the Gabba.

The Lions welcome back star midfielder Dayne Zorko, as well as impressive youngsters Eric Hipwood, Hugh McCluggage and Jarrod Berry. Daniel McStay also strengthens the Lions defence having missed the trip West last Sunday.

It appears Brisbane have set themselves for this contest, making no less than 5 changes for a six day turnaround. The Bulldogs have not won at the Gabba since 2009, having lost their past four games at the venue. They should break that losing run here, but might not have it all their own way. Western Bulldogs by 23 points.

North Melbourne v Collingwood

Huzzah! North Melbourne finally won a close one! Roos fans wondered if they would ever see the day where their team was on the right side of a close result after the season they have endured. But the rub of the green finally went their way against the Demons in Hobart last Saturday, giving them just their 5^th win of the season.

They get a second consecutive home game, this one back at Docklands against Collingwood who must still be kicking themselves over the fact they botched a 50 point third quarter lead against ladder leaders Adelaide and were forced to share the points thanks to a Mitch McGovern goal after the siren to draw the match.

Nathan Buckley has come out in the media this week and said that the club will look to recruit key position players in the off-season, which is an odd comment to make considering he is yet to be handed a new contract to coach the club in 2018 and beyond.

Perhaps it is a sign that he will soon be given the reins for a further period, or maybe it just shows you how obvious Collingwood’s recruiting deficiencies have been, that the outgoing coach knows he made a mistake in failing to lure talls in the latter years of his coaching tenure.

Daniel Wells was in blistering form last Sunday against the Crows, recording 34 disposals and 3 goals in his best performance yet in the black and white jumper. He will face his old side for the first time on Saturday night, no doubt with a point to prove.

The Roos lose Majak Daw (foot) and Jarrad Waite (calf) to injury, recalling Todd Goldstein to lead the ruck and youngster Nick ‘Souv’ Larkey as a forward option. Larkey failed to touch the ball on debut a fortnight ago, so expect a huge roar from the Roos faithful when he gets his hand on the pill. Who am I kidding, they don’t have any supporters so expect Bronx cheers from Pies fans instead.

The Pies need to keep winning to give Buckley a chance of keeping his job, Roos coach Brad Scott rumoured to be the favourite to take over in 2018. A win over the Pies wouldn’t hurt his chances, would it?

The 1977 premiership team for the Roos will be in attendance on the night, and who knows, it might lift the current day playing group. Probably not enough to get past the Pies though. Collingwood by 27 points.

 

ALL IS WELLS: Daniel Wells was in dominant form against the Crows last Sunday. He will face his old side for the first time on Saturday night. SOURCE: Fox Sports.

 

Fremantle v Gold Coast

I wrote earlier nearly every game in this round means something. This one does not. But these games bob up at this time of year. Last season there was five of these every round in the last 6 weeks of the season. But if you have the option of watching this game or going out on Saturday night, go out for heaven’s sake. This game will make you want a drink.

The Dockers nearly caused one of the upsets of an already unpredictable season last Saturday against the Giants, but faded like a young team often does in the last quarter of an interstate road trip.

Connor Blakely became the latest Doig Medal (Fremantle’s best and fairest award) favourite to suffer a season ending injury, following on from Michael Walters the week previous against Hawthorn. The Dockers appear to be limping to the finish line in 2017, but are showing some encouraging signs along the way.

Young ruckman Sean Darcy has been rested after a terrific start to his AFL career, Jonathon Griffin with perhaps his last chance to press claims for a contract extension in 2018. Danyle Pearce also appears on borrowed time, but returns to the Dockers lineup for the first time since the 100 point defeat at the hands of Adelaide in round 10.

The Suns welcome back star players Gary Ablett and Sam May who were both late withdrawals last week, Trent McKenzie another experienced player welcomed back in to the fold for the injury hit Suns who are just playing out another underwhelming season. Expect a large clean out at the club at the end of the season, senior coach Rodney Eade one of many expected to lose their job at the Suns.

Gold Coast won their last match in Perth against the Dockers back in round 2 of last year. Gary Ablett declared it as a defining win for his club after that game, but sadly little has gone right for the Suns since.

I can’t see the visitors getting a victory this time, the Dockers probably deserve a win for all of their hard work in 2017. Fremantle by 24 points.

St Kilda v West Coast

Absolute genius public relations from St Kilda this week. The Saints lost by 2 points with the last kick of the day against the Power in Adelaide, glaring defensive errors at a stoppage in the last 20 seconds allowing Robbie Gray to kick the match winner.

The footy media was ready to whack them come Monday. So what does Nick Riewoldt do? He announces his retirement to deflect the media criticism and turn the it in to praise of him and his club. Ah Nick, a team player right to the very end.

The man affectionately known as ‘Roo’ called time on his career on Monday, effective at the end of the season. He will be hoping for one last finals appearance, having played 333 games and kicked 714 goals for the Saints in 17 seasons of largely memorable football. He is one of the St Kilda greats, not only of this era but of all time.

It will no doubt spark his team in to action this week against the Eagles, who had the softest of home victories over Brisbane last Sunday. Josh Kennedy was magnificent yet again with another 6 majors, and remains a chance to win the Coleman Medal despite missing 5 games.

What a player he is. Imagine if he played for Carlton, he would be talked about as being a modern day great! Sorry though Josh, you play for the Eagles. Just a solid footballer who can’t kick goals at the MCG.

If either team harbours ambitions to play finals, and you would hope both do, this is a must win game. The Eagles haven’t lost to St Kilda at home or away since round 17 2011, West Coast winning the past 8 encounters including three at Docklands.

Sam Mitchell joined the retirement club mid-week, the ex-Hawthorn superstar calling time on a decorated career that has included four premierships, five club best and fairests, 3 All Australian jumpers and a retrospective Brownlow Medal. He will now transition seamlessly in to coaching at the Eagles, teaching the next crop of midfielders the tricks of the trade.

The Saints will still be stinging from last week’s heartbreaking loss, and will lift to keep the fairytale alive for their champion ex-skipper in this contest. St Kilda by 29 points.

 

CHAMPION OF THE GAME: Nick Riewoldt announced his retirement from the game after 17 seasons of AFL football on Monday. SOURCE: ABC. 

 

Richmond v Hawthorn

I thought the Hawks were finished? Gone, forgotten and set for a long rebuild two months ago? Now on the cusp of being a finals chance! No one wants to play Hawthorn in a final. Not when Alastair Clarkson is at the helm. What an incredible coach he is.

He masterminded yet another magnificent victory over Sydney last Friday night, completely shutting down the Swans midfield and dominating uncontested possession. They now face Richmond at the MCG in another do or die contest, needing to win almost every game from here on in to make the finals for an 8^th consecutive season.

The match is Jarryd Roughead’s 250^th game, a brilliant achievement from one of the most popular footballers in the competition. To overcome cancer and return to the playing field in 2017 has been an inspiration to many, and what’s more he has played every game and looked like he hasn’t missed a beat. Don’t rule out ‘Roughy’ playing on a couple more years yet.

Long-time team mate and former captain Luke Hodge will miss the match after copping a one week ban for a dummy tap on Tom Papley, the outgoing veteran accruing an automatic suspension due to the fact it was his 3^rd offence of the season. An appeal on Tuesday night came up short, meaning he will watch Roughead’s milestone match from the stands.

Richmond will be looking to spoil the party and keep their own top four chances alive, a remarkable effort from Damien Hardwick’s men considering they were expected to be one of the cellar dwellars in 2017.

They will be without Jack Riewoldt for another week due to an eye injury sustained at training last week. Dion Prestia should be a welcome inclusion having missed the match against his old side last week due a knee concern.

You wonder when (or if) the Tigers bubble is going to burst, as they have been one of the few teams to show something resembling consistency in 2017. If they could win the close games, heck the Tigers would probably be minor premiers this season! If they secure the double chance, who knows where they could end up come finals time.

The Hawks are playing impressive football at the moment, and might just put Richmond back in their place in this fixture. Roughy to emerge a winner in game 250. Hawthorn by 15 points.

 

AN INSPIRATION TO MANY: Hawks skipper Jarryd Roughead will play game 250 on Sunday. SOURCE: SEN.

 

Adelaide v Port Adelaide

I love Showdowns. Unlike Western Derbies, or Q-Clashes, or Battle for the Bridge matches, these two clubs genuinely hate each other. It goes right back to when Adelaide gained rite of passage in to the AFL before the Power did, despite the Port Adelaide Magpies being the most successful Australian football team in history at the time.

It has only grown since then, the teams playing in some memorable matches over the years, as well as an infamous Showdown brawl that ended up at the Ramsgate Hotel in 2002. I reckon the owner of that bar counts his blessings every week a Showdown comes up, as he/she knows that it means free publicity for the establishment.

Both teams are coming off thrillers in round 19, the Power recording a memorable victory thanks to Robbie Gray with just 7 seconds on the clock. Paddy Ryder deserves a fair share of credit too, thanks to his brilliant hitout that put Gray in to space. The Crows have Mitch McGovern to thank for their great escape, a clutch contested mark on the siren allowing him to go back and slot the goal to draw the game.

Adelaide remain on top of the table and appear well placed to secure the coveted double chance with four matches remaining, but won’t have it all their own way against the Power.

They will have the crowd support in the majority, as it is a Crows home Showdown. Don Pyke’s men also regain the services of Eddie Betts, Brad Crouch and Jake Lever for the game, out of contract Lever the talk of the football world this week when he reportedly met with Melbourne and Collingwood officials over a potential off season trade.

Port lose the services of veteran defender Matthew Broadbent due to an ankle injury, Angus Monfries a chance to play his first game for the Power since 2015. The former Don kicked a memorable goal in the final Showdown at Football Park in 2013, and could bob up as a surprise packet late in the season.

These games don’t always go according to script, but the Crows have won the past four Showdowns and appear the classier side. If the Power get their running game going though, look out. A cracking game to finish the round. Adelaide by 11 points.

 

EXPERIENCED INCLUSION: Angus Monfries could play his first AFL game since round 22, 2015 on Sunday. Here he tangles with Rory Laird back in 2015. SOURCE: Adelaide Advertiser.

 

By Jacob Landsmeer.

Jacob Landsmeer is a sports broadcaster on 91.3 Sport FM in Perth. He blogs here at zombiecrowscricket. Follow him on Twitter: @jlandsme_93

 

AFL Round 19 Preview: Hawks and Swans Rekindle Rivalry in Friday Night MCG Contest

We are heading in to the final month of the home and away season. How fast has this season gone? How good has this season been? We hope it stays this way for the duration as fans, we truly have been treated to a special year of AFL football.

Two teams that know how to handle the pressure and expectation of this time of year are Hawthorn and Sydney, the clubs having shared 4 of the past 5 premierships between them. In fact, every Grand Final since 2011 has featured one if not both of Hawthorn and Sydney.

While it appears highly unlikely the Hawks will feature in the big dance in 2017, the recent form of the Swans would suggest they are every chance to keep that Grand Final anomaly going, having won 10 of their past 11 games to turn a 0-6 start to the season in to a 10-7 record, seeing them hold sixth spot on the ladder, just a game off the top four.

The only team John Longmire’s men have lost to since the start of their inspired run is the Hawks, a late Jarryd Roughead goal sinking the Swans in the dying moments. It was the second consecutive game decided by a goal or less between the sides, and you wouldn’t bet against another one at the MCG on a Friday night to commence round 19. Here is a full preview of the round.

 

QUITE A RIVALRY: Hawks Luke Hodge and Isaac Smith celebrate a goal in the 2014 AFL Grand Final against Sydney. SOURCE: SEN.

 

Hawthorn v Sydney

Neither of these teams are ready to accept mediocrity. In fact, they could have had the quickest rebuilds in footballing history.

The Swans started the year at 0-6, the Hawks marginally better at 1-5. When both suffered demoralising losses on the same afternoon in round 6, the black pen was out to put a line through both clubs and their finals chances for 2017.

What’s happened since has been nothing short of remarkable, the Hawks accepting the need to bring in the next generation of stars in order to start building for another tilt at premiership glory. Youngsters such as Blake Hardwick, James Sicily (minus his blow up with Taylor Duryea), Ryan Burton, Daniel Howe and Billy Hartung have all shown significant improvement this season, giving supporters something to get excited about in regards to the club’s future.

Unfortunately their poor start means they are unlikely to feature in finals football in 2017, sitting a game and half plus percentage outside of the top eight with just five matches remaining. A loss here will see them almost certainly out of finals contention, but they certainly won’t go down without a fight.

The Swans have been mighty in recent weeks. After unconvincing wins over Richmond and Essendon, they have been dominant in brushing each of their opponents aside. Their only challenge in recent weeks has come against Greater Western Sydney, but the team was able to hold off their local rival and secure another superb win.

Everyone knows the Swans style of football stands up to the rigours of finals football, which makes this form as a pre-cursor to September particularly ominous. Sydney Captain Josh Kennedy plays his 200^th AFL match, having started his career at Hawthorn, his Grandfather one of the legends of the Hawthorn football club and his father also an ex Hawks player.

It’s all set up for two arch rivals to battle it out in another MCG epic on a Friday night, with the entire football world watching. You know both teams will thrive on the occasion, and it should be another fantastic contest. The Swans are travelling just a little bit better than the Hawks, who are coming off a six day break heading back from Perth. Sydney by 11 points.

North Melbourne v Melbourne

A win here, and Melbourne fans can almost lock in finals. Not only that, they can dream of a top four finish. Wow, all Christmas’s have come at once for Dees fans!

Last week’s win over the Power was particularly impressive, set up by a dominant first 45 minutes of the match at the MCG. Port simply couldn’t get going, due to Melbourne’s pressure and intensity around the contest and ability to spread from stoppages. It was a mature performance from Simon Goodwin’s team, which bodes well for further challenges that lie ahead.

On paper this seems a straightforward assignment against 17^th placed North Melbourne, but as Melbourne supporters will tell you nothing is straightforward with the competition’s oldest club.

A closer look at the Dees record against the Roos shows they haven’t beaten the boys from Arden Street since 2006, having lost the past sixteen matches against North Melbourne. SIXTEEN! Well, I guess all streaks are meant to be broken at some stage.

That streak will have to end outside of Melbourne however, with this match being played at Blundstone Arena in Hobart. The teams played out an epic high scoring encounter last season, 41 goals shared between the teams on a windy April afternoon, the Roos securing a nervy five point win.

Melbourne are certainly better placed now, North Melbourne a shadow of the team that knocked off the Dees by 14 points in round 9 this year. Brad Scott’s men welcome back big man Braydon Preuss for the first time since round 4, along with club best and fairest Robbie Tarrant and captain Jack Ziebell. Debutants against the Dons last week Josh Williams and Nick Larkey (knee) go out, Larkey suffering the ignominy of failing to touch the football on debut. Cameron Zurhaar also makes way.

Melbourne go in unchanged, and look primed to break their duck against the Roos, ironically on a ground famous for ducks over the years. No one mention last year’s Test match against South Africa please. Melbourne by 31 points.

 

WELCOME INCLUSION: Melbourne co-captain Jack Viney was integral on return to the team last Saturday against Port Adelaide. SOURCE: Fan Footy.

 

Greater Western Sydney v Fremantle

The Giants have hit a wall. With just one win in their past 6 matches (against bottom placed Brisbane) the AFL’s newest club is in danger of sliding out of the top four should it not recover it’s best form immediately.

The Tigers deserved their win over the Giants last Sunday at a wet MCG, but Leon Cameron’s team will be disappointed they let a good start to the game slip, kicking the game’s opening 3 goals before failing to add to their tally until the 17 minute mark of the third quarter.

Richmond tellingly beat the more talented Giants around the contest, which will sting the team from Sydney’s west in to action this weekend, facing a fading Fremantle on their home patch.

They will have to do it without Shane Mumford, who is set to miss a fortnight with an ankle niggle. Steve Johnson’s body appears to be almost giving up on him, as he misses with knee soreness. Toby Greene is out suspended after his latest brain snap, while ex-Docker Tendai Mzungu has been dropped, meaning he won’t get a chance to play his old side.

The news is better for Matt DeBoer, who will face his old club after overcoming a concussion that saw him miss the Tigers clash. Dawson Simpson replaces Mumford, while ex-West Aussie Stephen Coniglio returns from an ankle complaint. Jeremy Cameron completes the list of inclusions, adding some potency up forward.

The Dockers have struggled for goalkickers yet again in 2017, leading goalkicker Michael Walters gone for the season with a knee injury. Cam McCarthy has a chance to impress against his old side, and will need to have a big game if Fremantle are to cause what would be a huge upset.

Ross Lyon has made four changes at selection, two forced due to injury with Lee Spurr (calf) joining Walters on the casualty list. Luke Ryan and Brennan Cox return after their post Derby drinking indiscretion saw them relegated to the WAFL, along with Brady Grey and Cameron Sutcliffe.

Just can’t see the Dockers kicking a big enough score against the Giants, they would have to reduce the game to one hell of an ugly scrap in order to win it. GWS to bounce back with an important win. Greater Western Sydney by 34 points.

Port Adelaide v St Kilda

Oh Port Adelaide. How you must frustrate your supporters. Does anyone actually support them though? Remember when the Power home games had tarpaulin sheets to cover all the empty seats at Football Park? Good times.

Yet another loss against a genuine contender last week left the football world scratching their heads. Can a team that is 5^th on the ladder actually be no good? On the body of work put together so far this season, it would suggest they are a mediocre side capable of beating the teams around them, but not above them.

The Power remarkably sit just a game outside of the top four despite their inability to beat a quality side, which makes every game from here vitally important if they are to give themselves the pivotal double chance.

Losing Chad Wingard for at least a month of football hurts Ken Hinkley’s side, but Jasper Pittard adds some run off half back as he regains his place in the side. Jack Hombsch strengthens the defence in replacing youngster Logan Austin, who was found wanting against Logan Austin last week.

The Saints lose more than 700 games experience for the trip to South Australia, losing Leigh Montagna (hamstring), Nick Riewoldt (managed) and Koby Stevens (groin) all ruled out. Tim Membrey comes back to add some potency up forward.

While the Saints could cause an upset here, their form on the road has been disappointing in recent seasons, having failed to win at the venue in 7 starts. On top of that, their average losing margin at the venue is 62 points, having never got within 5 goals of either the Crows or the Power.

It suggests it may be a tough afternoon for Alan Richardson’s team, the former Power coach (for one game in 2013) unlikely to have a happy return to the city of churches. Power for me, but it won’t change my opinion of them. Port Adelaide by 28 points.

 

FAR FROM POWERFUL: Port Adelaide players head off the MCG after their 23 point loss to Melbourne last week. SOURCE: The Advertiser. 

 

Gold Coast v Richmond

Richmond fans shudder every time someone mentions the Gold Coast. Nice holiday destination, not such a good football team. Remember the Cairns experiment? Well that was an unmitigated disaster for the Tigers, who won one of the three matches they played against the Suns at the venue.

The Tigers face the Suns at Metricon Stadium for just the second time in their history, Gold Coast winning the round 1 2014 encounter between the sides by 3 goals.

The Tigers are now inside the top four, an incredible achievement considering their 13^th placed finish in 2016 with just 8 wins for the season. To recover from a slow start to beat the Giants was perhaps their finest victory of the season to date, and gives long suffering Tigers supporters a reason to dream big in 2017.

However, a bit of perspective is needed. Despite their current predicament, the boys from Punt Road have not won a final since 2001, having lost three consecutive elimination finals from 2013-15. They must continue their season of improvement and promise to remain a chance in September, and can’t afford a slip up against a Gold Coast side in 15^th spot on the table and no chance of playing finals football.

This is the game the old Richmond would drop in a heartbeat, but you feel there is more resilience in this group in 2017. They will have to beat the Suns without the services of Jack Riewoldt (eye) who injured himself at training during the week, while former Sun Dion Prestia will not face his former side due to knee soreness.

Bachar Houli returns from THAT suspension to give some run off half back, along with ex Giant Anthony Miles and youngster Shai Bolton. Gary Ablett is back for the Suns to continue his week on-week off pattern of recent games, while the club will unveil it’s 9^th club debutant of the season, with young defender Max Spencer named to face the Tigers.

Reckon this game will be quite close and hard fought, the Suns a far better team at home. The Tigers simply have too much to play for in this one, and will edge out the home side in the closer of the two Saturday night games. Richmond by 8 points.

Carlton v Geelong

Of all the results that surprised in round 18, the most surprising was the performance of Carlton. Unfortunately for Blues fans, it was an unwelcome surprise, as the Lions dominated the first half kicking 12 goals to 3, setting up an eventual 30 point win.

It was a game that no doubt the young Carlton side had marked down as a win going on their marked improvement in 2017, but they were simply outclassed by a faster, more skilful Lions outfit.

It seems the Blues have encountered a similar problem to 2016, where they hit a road block late in the season after a period of marked improvement through the middle stages of the year. The challenge now is to remain competitive for the remainder of the season and avoid thrashings that became all too commonplace in 2015.

It won’t be easy against a Geelong side that will be looking for a response after a poor performance on the road in Adelaide, and an angry Geelong is an scary proposition for any side, let alone the lowly placed Blues.

Utility Mark Blicavs is out with an ankle injury sustained against the Crows, while Steven Motlop has been managed after a quiet month of football. Daniel Menzel is out with general soreness after copping a couple of knocks last week, Zac Guthrie and Rhys Stanley both dropped after quiet games in round 18. Veteran Andrew Mackie and young forward Wylie Buzza headline the inclusions.

The Blues welcome back two talls for the contest, Caleb Marchbank and Simon White returning to the side at the expense of Harrison McCreadie and Nick Graham.

The Blues won the last meeting between the sides in a shock result in round 10 last year, but at this stage of the year the Cats very rarely slip up against weaker opposition. The boys in navy blue and white hoops to beat the boys in navy blue and white. Yep, I just confused you didn’t I? Geelong by 32 points.

 

BIG LOSS: Mark Blicavs may miss the remainder of the home and away season with an ankle injury sustained last weekend. SOURCE: Geelong FC. 

 

Western Bulldogs v Essendon

Huge game this one for both sides. If there is one spot up for grabs in the eight, you reckon it will be filled by one of these two teams. The Dons currently occupy 8^th spot on the table, and a win here will see them somewhat secure heading in to the final four matches of the season.

A loss to the Dogs will give their opponents some hope of making finals, and with West Coast expected to beat Brisbane in the final game of the round there is simply no room for error here for the Dons.

Should the Bulldogs go down their premiership defence may have a line in permanent marker put through it, despite a relatively soft draw in the run home. They did what they had to do against the Suns, Liam Picken the unlikely star inside forward 50 with a career best 6 majors.

They need to beat a quality team though to convince people they are capable of making something of this frustrating season, and a game against the Dons looms as the perfect place to start. Premiership players Tory Dickson and Fletcher Roberts could return, while Travis Cloke appears set to return after battling mental health issues in recent weeks.

The Bombers appear the more settled outfit and could go in to the match unchanged, coming off a hard fought, high scoring win over North Melbourne last week. Cale Hooker was the star with 5 goals, 4 of those coming in the final quarter. He plays his 150^th game, the West Australian having found a permanent home up forward in 2017.

Will be a fast paced game under the roof at Docklands, and one of the games of the round. The Dogs could revive their season with a win here, and I’m backing them to do just that. Western Bulldogs by 19 points.

 

MILESTONE MAN: Cale Hooker plays game 150 against the Western Bulldogs on Sunday. SOURCE: SBS. 

 

Collingwood v Adelaide

Anyone for the Pies winning 3 in a row? Nope, didn’t think so. Maybe some die hard Collingwood fans give them a chance, and the fact the game is in Melbourne helps, but the Crows are top of the table and flying towards September and the coveted double chance.

The Pies have had two solid if not slightly fortuitous wins, defeating an undermanned Gold Coast in the wet before sneaking past West Coast in an epic comeback last Sunday that probably said more about the Eagles than it did about the black and whites.

They will have to go to another level to beat the Crows, despite missing star forward Eddie Betts and midfielder Brad Crouch due to injury. Jake Lever will also miss at least another week with a hamstring concern, meaning Alex Keath will get another chance to impress after a solid enough debut against the Cats.

The Pies will unveil a son of a gun this weekend, with Josh Daicos, son of premiership champion Peter to debut against the Crows. In Multicultural round, the son of the man known as ‘The Macedonian Marvel’ donning the black and white guernsey for the first time seems apt for the occasion. Travis Varcoe misses with a nasty elbow injury sustained in the win over the Eagles last week.

The Pies can keep their mathematical finals chances alive with a win here, and beating the Crows would certainly give their fans something to get excited about. But Adelaide don’t fear the MCG like some other interstate teams, which is ominous for Victorian teams come September. Adelaide by 16 points.

West Coast v Brisbane

The Bradd Dalziell-Elliot Yeo cup completes round 19 at Subiaco Oval, the Eagles having faced a week of extensive media scrutiny following their horrific final quarter fade out against Collingwood.

Up to 12 changes to the list have been mooted as West Coast’s season appears to be on the slide, one of their warriors announcing his retirement on Friday. 2014 Brownlow medallist Matt Priddis announced his intentions to call it a day at the end of 2017, despite having a contract with the club for 2018. As it does for some footballers, the end has come quicker than expected for the 235 game veteran, his body hitting a wall in the second half of this season.

West Coast fans will have to wait another fortnight to cheer on one of their favourite sons after he was ruled out of the fixture with a quad injury, Lewis Jetta also out with a sore calf. Luke Partington will finally make his AFL debut, after averaging 28 disposals and a goal in the game for East Perth in the WAFL. There might have been a lynch mob had he missed out, given everything that has been said about the Eagles this week.

Brisbane had a most impressive win over Carlton last week, but lose their best player in Dayne Zorko to suspension for the trip West, also deciding to rest youngsters Hugh McCluggage, Eric Hipwood and Jarrod Berry. Daniel McStay will also miss the match, leaving the Lions short of tall defenders.

Josh Kennedy looms large, having kicked 6 goals in his 200^th AFL game last Sunday. Jack Darling could also have a big day, while Mark LeCras needs to respond after heavy criticism from Eastern states media during the week.

If West Coast can’t dispose of Brisbane on their home patch, they may as well pack up and head off on their end of season trip come Monday morning. Their season will be over should they lose here. They should win, but we won’t learn anything new about them from this fixture. West Coast by 45 points.

 

 

AN EAGLES GREAT: 2014 Brownlow Medallist Matt Priddis announced his retirement on Friday, effective at the end of this season. SOURCE: ABC. 

 

By Jacob Landsmeer.

Jacob Landsmeer is a sports broadcaster on 91.3 Sport FM in Perth. He blogs here at zombiecrowscricket. Follow him on Twitter: @jlandsme_93

 

AFL Round 18 Preview: Crows and Cats Battle it Out for Top Spot in Friday Night Clash

Adelaide and Geelong are two of the premiership favourites in the 2017 AFL season. Sitting in 1^st and 2^nd respectively, the clubs will kick off round 18 with a top of the table clash under lights at the Adelaide Oval, both teams out to prove a point.

While the Cats have won their past two games and haven’t lost since round 13, their ability to take their best football on the road against good opposition remains an issue. While they brushed aside 18^th placed Brisbane at the Gabba a fortnight ago, they could only share the points with the Giants in round 15, and lost to the Eagles in round 13 after their bye.

A match against the Crows on their home patch won’t be easy for Chris Scott’s men, but they go in with some confidence having beaten the Crows in the past five matches between the clubs, including the round 8 match last year at the Adelaide Oval.

With both sides wanting to prove their premiership credentials, this looms as a perfect opportunity for one team to establish themselves as the frontrunner for the 2017 AFL flag with just 6 weeks until finals football. Here is a complete preview of round 18.

 

TOUGH CONTEST: Rory Sloane gets a kick away under pressure in the round 10 clash between Geelong and Adelaide at Kardinia Park. SOURCE: The Adelaide Advertiser. 

 

Adelaide v Geelong

It’s a good time of the year to be 1^st and 2^nd on the ladder. While the minor premiership doesn’t mean too much these days, you would still love top spot with 6 weeks left in the home and away season.

These two teams have already met once in 2017, a Friday night encounter at Kardinia Park won convincingly by the Cats.

In all the team and navy blue and white hoops have won the past 5 encounters against the Crows dating back to 2013, although four of those have been on Geelong’s home patch. The Cats did however largely dominate the round 8 fixture at the Adelaide Oval last season, only keeping the home side in the match with poor kicking for goal before closing it out for a 26 point win.

With the Crows being an attacking high scoring team, the Cats seemed to have cracked the code as to how to clamp down on Don Pyke’s side’s ability to score, having kept them to 12 goals or less in each of the past five encounters.

The talk of the town is whether Patrick Dangerfield will line up against his former side, having sustained a foot injury against Hawthorn last week.

Not only did he play out the match, but he was the most influential player on the ground with 5.6 playing exclusively out of full forward. With 32 goals to his name already in 2017, the Brownlow Medallist looms as a threat even on one leg should he get up for the contest.

Former Victorian first class cricketer Alex Keath will make his debut, having previously been on the Gold Coast Suns inaugural list in 2011. He becomes the second code hopper rookie to debut for the Crows this season, Hugh Greenwood having slotted in seamlessly since his debut in round 9.

Going to be game of the round for me this one, but the Cats defence is impenetrable it seems when these two teams play. Cats for me. Geelong by 8 points.

 

A DANGEROUS FIVE: Patrick Dangerfield slotted 5 goals in a memorable performance against the Hawks last week, but remains in doubt for a clash against his old side in Adelaide. SOURCE: SEN. 

 

Essendon v North Melbourne

ESSENDON ARE BACK! Well at least that was the narrative spruiked after the Bombers pummelled St Kilda to the tune of 61 points last Friday night.

No doubt their best is very good, but they simply must find some consistency if they are to be a significant factor in finals football, or even be in the running for a finals berth.

Taking care of 17^th placed North Melbourne is a must if they are to keep in touch with the top 8, having previously stumbled against fellow cellar dwellers Brisbane in round 15.

The Roos appear ripe for the picking, broken by a series of close losses already this season and coming off a 70 point trouncing at the hands of Port Adelaide last weekend.

They are also without captain Jack Ziebell who has been managed, while experienced ruckman Todd Goldstein has finally paid the price for poor form, dropped for the clash with the Dons.

In this corresponding match two years ago, Goldstein dominated to the point where he was being compared to the greatest ruckman of the modern generation in Dean Cox.  He would win All-Australian honours and the club best and fairest that season, but that seems a world away now as he appears destined to be moved on from Arden Street at the end of the season.

The Dons welcome back Jobe Watson and young gun Jayden Laverde, fresh off 6 goals in the VFL last week. Josh Green misses with a hamstring injury, while former Swan Craig Bird has been dropped, suggesting his career at AFL level may be as good as over.

Essendon need to continue their momentum from last week, and with Joe Daniher in ominous form he seems set to feature prominently once again. Bombers to secure another important win. Essendon by 34 points.

Melbourne v Port Adelaide

The Dees must win this. But then again, so must the Power. With other teams breathing down their neck, a loss here could send Melbourne spiralling out of the eight. It’s a similar scenario for the Power in their bid for a top four berth, Sydney and Richmond both lurking at their heels.

Ironically, if the Dees do beat the Power here the teams will both have 10-7 records, despite the Power being in 4^th spot and Melbourne in 7^th heading in to this contest. It shows just how tight this season is, and how costly one poor performance can be.

Melbourne welcome back four first choice players and a former captain for the fixture at the MCG, the first time the teams have met at the venue since round 1, 2013. A man who debuted in that fixture, now co-captain of the club Jack Viney has been named to return from a foot injury ahead of schedule for the match, along with Christian Salem, Dom Tyson, Jack Trengove and 150 gamer Jack Watts.

You sense Simon Goodwin has thrown out all his aces in this footballing poker match, knowing the importance of winning this game. The Power have dropped Jasper Pittard, welcoming back Matthew Broadbent from an ankle injury which cost him a fortnight on the sidelines.

Charlie Dixon plays his 100^th match of AFL football, and looms as a key player in this match. With all the inclusions here for the Dees, I think they might just edge the Power. Will be interesting to see how Melbourne starts this game after playing in the humidity and heat of Darwin last week. Melbourne by 13 points.

 

WELCOME BACK JACK: Jack Watts returns to play his 150th match against the Power this weekend. SOURCE: ABC. 

 

Western Bulldogs v Gold Coast

Oh dear. Cairns. That’s a Taboo word down at Tigerland. Damien Hardwick still has nightmares about Karmichael Hunt’s goal after the siren.

Thankfully for Dimma and his team their contract to play one home match in Cairns a year for three seasons expired, and rather unsurprisingly they jumped and ran when it was and handed the baton across to the Western Bulldogs, who handled the trip a lot better last season and recorded a win by 8 goals.

They were travelling far better this time last year, and don’t head in to the game full of confidence and in great form. They were victorious against the Blues last Sunday, but were far from convincing. In saying that, after their previous month an ugly win sure beats an ugly loss.

Youngster Lewis Young impressed in the long sleeves across half back for the Doggies, giving the supporters in red, white and blue something to cheer about in what has been a frustrating premiership defence thus far. Young was an able replacement for the suspended Easton Wood, who returns for the trip North, Jake Stringer (hamstring) a casualty in the win over the Blues.

Gold Coast have once again been hit hard by injury to key personnel, making an already tough task for Rodney Eade and his side even tougher. Gary Ablett misses again with a hamstring concern despite racking up 41 touches in a loss to the Magpies, the third game he has missed in the past 6 weeks.

Co-captain Steven May and boom recruit Jarryd Lyons both miss as well due to injuries sustained early against Collingwood, making their task exceedingly difficult. Finals now appear a distant dream for the Suns, who seemed on the build earlier in the season with wins over West Coast and Hawthorn.

Jack Scrimshaw debuts for the Suns, a first round draft pick from last year. A tall, left footed rebounding defender from Sandringham, Scrimshaw is highly rated and is expected to slot seamlessly in to AFL football.

It may be a chastening debut however for the 18 year old, the Bulldogs hungry for some better form and sensing a swift and decisive kill against the weakened Suns. Expect the Dogs to enjoy a fruitful trip to Cairns here. Western Bulldogs by 45 points.

Sydney v St Kilda

Sigh. Just when all AFL fans thought we would have an AFL finals series without either Hawthorn or Sydney for the first time since 2009, the Swans decided they would start playing at their best again after a 0-6 start appeared to put their 2017 season in the un- retrievable basket.

Some 10 games later the Sydneysiders have won 9 of their past 10 games, and appear headed for not only a finals berth, but a potential top four finish. Considering no team has ever made the finals from 0-6, it seems nigh on possible that team could earn the double chance from that position.

Sydney never just make up the numbers in finals either. Their contested style always stands up to the rigours of finals football, and with so many A grade players in their ranks there is no doubt John Longmire’s men are capable of winning the 2017 AFL  premiership from here.

In saying that, one or two shock losses has them back in the logjam looking for a top 8 spot, showing just how tight (and ridiculous) this season is.

The Swans host St Kilda at the SCG under lights on Saturday night, fresh off their finest win of the season over local rivals Greater Western Sydney last Saturday. Despite only being a 13 point win on paper, it was their most imposing performance of the season against quality opposition.

The Saints came crashing back to earth with a thud in a ten goal loss at the hands of Essendon, just 6 days after their finest performance in many a year against Richmond. I guess in hindsight we should have seen it coming after four successive wins, but the performance put in by Alan Richardson’s men was not that of a top eight side.

The punishment for the defeat to see their spot inside the 8 disappear by the end of the round, and facing an uphill battle to get it back with a match against the Swans. They welcome back ruckman Billy Longer from a hamstring injury, while youngster Rowan Marshall makes his debut. At 201 cm, Marshall can play at either end of the ground and gives the Saints some much needed flexibility.

Expect the Swans will not be letting up anytime soon and won’t give the Saints a look in here, they have worked too hard to undo all their good work with a loss at home. Sydney by 28 points.

 

HERE COME THE SWANS: Sydney players celebrate a hard fought 13 point win over Greater Western Sydney in round 17. SOURCE: SEN.

 

Fremantle v Hawthorn

Fremantle are never going to win an award for being the most aesthetically pleasing team in the competition, at least while Ross Lyon is at the helm. But heck, that was horrible last week against the Eagles. Having watched that effort live in person, it was ten times worse than watching on television.

The Dockers simply couldn’t hit a target, whether in general play or having a shot for goal. They had a return of 2.13 at one stage, even the most optimistic of Freo fans struggling to claim they had kicked the equivalent of 4.1.

Remarkably they were still in the game halfway through the last quarter before the Eagles put them out of their misery with a couple of late goals. In all honesty the siren put everyone out of their misery, most Fremantle fans half way home by the time the final act of the afternoon sounded out around Subiaco Oval.

The only target seemingly hit all day was Ross Lyon’s coke bottle, which ended up all over assistant coach Anthony Rock. That was almost the highlight of the game, which speaks volumes about what sort of contest transpired on the day.

Lyon’s men simply couldn’t play that badly again in this encounter, a match at home against Hawthorn presenting another challenge for his young side.

Two Fremantle youngsters Luke Ryan and Brennan Cox were so affected by the game they partook in last Sunday that they needed to cleanse themselves with a couple of post-match ales that sees them relegated to the sidelines for this fixture, replaced by Cam McCarthy and second gamer Josh Deluca.

The Hawks will look to mark coach Alastair Clarkson’s 300^th game as coach in the best possible style with a victory, the finest coach of his generation doing a fine job of regenerating his list on the run.

Shaun Burgoyne incredibly plays his 100^th consecutive match, a remarkable effort for a man who arrived at the club in 2010 with a dodgy knee and little hope of playing more than a couple of seasons. On form, he could certainly play on into 2018.

The visitors will unveil an Irish debutaunt by the name of Conor Glass, a red headed 19 year old originally recruited from County Derry. Brendan Whitecross also returns, Kurt Heatherley and Kade Stewart omitted.

Tough game to tip with both teams at similar stages in their development, or re-development if you like. Fremantle will play better than last week, but I’m not sure they can kick a big enough score to beat the Hawks even at home. Hawthorn by 18 points.

 

MODERN DAY COACHING GREAT: Alastair Clarkson celebrates the 300 game milestone as coach against Fremantle on Saturday night. SOURCE: Fox Sports.

 

Richmond v Greater Western Sydney

The Giants are on the slide apparently. Wouldn’t mind being on the slide while still in third place on the AFL ladder mind you.

Most other teams with an injury list as long as the AFL’s newest club would be out of the finals race and hoping for better luck next year. The fact the Giants are still in the premiership race is remarkable when put in context. Imagine if they get something close to their best side on the park? Look out fellow finals fancies.

Two draws and a gallant loss to the Swans is hardly a form slump, but another loss in this match against Richmond could get people talking. The Giants will be without Jeremy Cameron once again after he was a late withdrawal with a hamstring concern against the Swans last week, but could welcome back Stephen Coniglio for his first match since round 8 due to an ongoing ankle concern.

The Tigers were largely unconvincing against the Brisbane Lions last Sunday, but secured an important win to keep their season moving forward in the right direction. No doubt the boys from Punt Road will remember the round 9 fixture between the sides, Richmond squandering a 31 point lead in the third term to lose at the death by 3 points.

It was their second loss in the dying moments in consecutive weeks, and left Tigers fans wondering what on earth their team needed to do to be on the right side of a close result. They might get another chance here, as this looms as another epic at the home of football.

It’s a rare chance for the Giants to play on the hallowed MCG turf, having not played at the venue since round 1 last year. They have won just one of ten games at the ground, a ten goal win over the Demons in 2014 their only success.

With this their only chance to play at the venue potentially until Grand Final day (if they get there), Leon Cameron’s men simply must win this game. The former Western Bulldogs and Richmond player signed a two year contract extension during the week, a reward for his development of a young up and coming powerhouse.

Think the Giants will have too much poise and polish for the Tigers, but will be one of the games of the round. Greater Western Sydney by 7 points.

Collingwood v West Coast

Nathan Buckley must feel like he is on a hiding to nothing. His team finally gets a win, a hard fought one at that in the wet over the Gold Coast at Metricon Stadium, and he and his team still gets smashed in the media.

Not only is ‘Bucks’ under pressure to keep his job, but prominent members of the Melbourne media are now calling for President Eddie McGuire to join Buckley in exiting the Lexus Centre after what looms as a fourth successive season without a finals appearance.

You wonder what the Pies can actually do to stop the media criticism, considering winning clearly did nothing to help the looming decision on Buckley’s future. I guess all they can do is keep on winning, and another positive result against a top eight side in West Coast at Docklands will help alleviate the pressure no end.

West Coast bounced back from their poor loss to Port Adelaide with a win over a wasteful Fremantle in the Western Derby last Sunday, two time reigning Coleman Medallist Josh Kennedy returning with 3 goals. Despite missing 5 games through injury, he sits just 10 goals behind Coleman Medal leader Lance Franklin with matches against bottom four teams Brisbane and Carlton looming over the next month.

The match is Kennedy’s 200^th at AFL level, the Eagles spearhead closing in on 500 AFL goals. It has been a fantastic career after a slow start, but West Coast can now view the infamous Chris Judd trade as a favourable one after some initial misgivings from fans and media alike.

Luke Shuey (150 games) and Elliot Yeo (100 games) also reach milestones against the Magpies, West Coast no doubt greatful they have drawn Collingwood at Docklands rather than the MCG, having not beaten the Pies at the mecca since round 2, 1995.

West Coast was too good for Collingwood at Docklands in 2015, and their forward line once again looms as a key to this fixture. With Kennedy back and Jack Darling having produced a fine month of football, the Eagles have definitive forward targets that Collingwood crave.

The home side will have to beat the Eagles without the services of captain Scott Pendlebury, who will miss an indefinite period with a finger injury sustained late against the Suns in the wet last week. With his stunning recuperative powers, you wouldn’t rule him getting back within a fortnight.

The Eagles were smashed in the midfield last week even in victory in Derby 46, and the Magpies strength is their performance in the middle of the ground, even in Pendlebury’s absence. Adam Treloar, Taylor Adams and Steele Sidebottom are all quality players, and West Coast must neutralise their influence if they are to win.

Tipping West Coast here, but it could be another scrappy frustrating game for both teams. The Eagles don’t mind playing at Docklands, compared to their struggles at the MCG. West Coast by 19 points.

 

MILESTONE MAN: Josh Kennedy celebrates his 200th AFL match against Collingwood on Sunday. SOURCE: The Australian.

 

Brisbane Lions v Carlton

It’s been an awfully long time since these two teams played in what could be considered a genuine blockbuster. Both have been down the bottom end of the ladder for the past decade, and that has been reflected in the fixturing here, with the Lions and Blues drawn to finish the round in the dreaded Sunday evening timeslot.

Considering the Lions struggle to get decent home crowds in recent seasons, you can expect another low attendance figure in this one. Still, it should be an interesting game, both teams showing improvement in 2017 despite being in 18^th and 16^th position respectively.

The last time these teams met in a game that meant anything more than the stock standard four premiership points for the record was back in 2009, when the teams played out an epic elimination final that saw the Lions come back from 5 goals down early in the last quarter to win by 7 points. Yep, it’s been a while.

The Blues continue to be gallant in defeat without stringing together a series of stirring wins, their season highlight to date their victory over Greater Western Sydney in round 12 by a solitary point.

This looms as a very winnable contest for the visitors, despite the Blues having failed to win at the Gabba since round 9 2013. Brisbane shows spurts of growth without always turning it in to victorious performances, much like their opponents in this contest.

Carlton are counting the cost of their injuries as we move towards the final month of the season, Dylan Buckley (hamstring), Ciaran Byrne (groin) and Alex Silvagni (knee) all ruled out of the trip North with ailments picked up in the 20 point loss to the Bulldogs last Sunday.

Collingwood premiership player Dale Thomas, utility Dennis Armfield  and ex Cat Billie Smedts headline the inclusions list for the visitors, while Darcy Gardiner could return from an elbow injury for the Lions. Nick Robertson goes out after paying the price for his niggling tactics on Dustin Martin last week, suspended for the fixture.

Brisbane recived a further boost during the week with youngster Alex Witherden given the round 17 Rising Star nomination after having a team high 28 disposals in the 31 point loss to the Tigers last week.  In just his fourth game, Witherden is averaging a touch under 25 disposals a game.

Flip of a coin tip this one, but backing the Lions to continue their recent improvement and claim a victory at home. The two great Dayne’s in Zorko and Beams will be hard to stop in midfield. Brisbane by 15 points.

 

BRIGHT YOUNG TALENT: Alex Witherden secured the round 17 Rising Star nomination for his 28 disposal effort against Richmond. SOURCE: Triple M.

 

By Jacob Landsmeer.

Jacob Landsmeer is a sports broadcaster on 91.3 Sport FM in Perth. He blogs here at zombiecrowscricket. Follow him on Twitter: @jlandsme_93

AFL Round 17 Preview: Saints out to Prove Credentials against Fluky Bombers

In this remarkably unpredictable season, the only certainty appears to be uncertainty surrounding the results of teams on a week to week basis.

Essendon are one of those teams that best embodies the season we have been witness to so far, playing brilliantly one week followed by a mediocre performance the next.

St Kilda was another frustrating side early in the season, showing obvious talent with a young squad but dropping winnable matches. After round 12 they sat 5-6, the season in danger of slipping away.

They have won four consecutive games since their loss to the Crows at the Adelaide Oval, now sitting in equal fourth spot.

Their stunning first half against a top 4 side in Richmond left football followers stunned, the margin an incredible 82 points at half time. It was irresistible football, and left long suffering Saints fans dreaming big ahead of finals.

They still have a long way to go in that regard, needing at least 3 more wins to sew up their finals spot. The Saints have not played finals football since 2011, and appear well placed for September action.

The Bombers took care of Collingwood at the MCG last week, reviving their season in the process after successive heartbreaking losses to Sydney and Brisbane. They remain one of the wildcards in this breathtaking season, who could do some damage still if they are good enough to make finals.

It sets up a great contest between the teams under the roof at Docklands to kick off round 17, another superb round of AFL football. Here is a complete preview.

 

PACY CONTEST: Anthony McDonald Tipungwuti will be an excitement machine against St Kilda on Friday night. SOURCE: Fox Sports. 

 

St Kilda v Essendon

A team winning four games in a season as close as this one is meritorious. That’s what the Saints achieved last week in their dominant dismantling of Richmond, putting themselves in the frame for a top four spot.

That was unthinkable a month ago, but Alan Richardson’s team has turned their fortunes around at the right time of the season with wins over North Melbourne, Gold Coast, Fremantle (interstate) and Richmond leaving them just percentage off fourth spot.

They will face a Jekyll-Hyde Essendon in a mouthwatering match up to open proceedings in round 17, the Dons rebounding strongly after two tight losses with a win over Collingwood last week. Orazio Fantasia and Joe Daniher combining for 8 goals between them.

The Saints lose some of their goal scoring potency for this contest, Tim Membrey to miss a fortnight due to suspension after his 5 goal haul last week. In form ruckman Billy Longer is out with a hamstring injury, Tom Hickey with his first chance at AFL level since round 4 this year.

18 year old Josh Battle will make his AFL debut, the youngster still completing his year 12 studies.

The Bombers have made just one change, Swans premiership player Craig Bird returning to the team for the first time this season with Jobe Watson rested.

Should be a fast paced, exciting game under the roof, going with the Saints to make it five consecutive wins but the Bombers will make them earn it. St Kilda by 11 points.

Geelong v Hawthorn

The Cats enjoyed their holidays to Sydney and Brisbane, and emerged unscathed on the injury and losing front, drawing with the Giants and pummelling the Lions at the Gabba last weekend.

They return to home comforts (of sorts) to take on long time arch rivals Hawthorn at the MCG, the Hawks looking to honour one of their modern day greats in Luke Hodge in game 300.

A three time premiership captain, a four time premiership player, two time Norm Smith Medallist, three time All-Australian and two time club best and fairest, Hodge has been an outstanding contributor to the club’s most successful era, one of the great leaders in VFL/AFL history.

Hawthorn head in to the match in terrific form, having drawn with the Giants in Tasmania last week and beaten Adelaide and Collingwood in rounds 14 and 15 respectively. It has been a remarkable turnaround in fortunes from a 0-4 start to the season, the Cats thrashing the Hawks by 86 points in the corresponding fixture earlier in year.

The Hawks go in to the match unchanged, but the Cats welcome back important players Scott Selwood and Daniel Menzel, youngsters Wylie Buzza and Zach Guthrie the players to make way.

Stopping the impact of Patrick Dangerfield and Joel Selwood looms once again as the key for Hawthorn here, but Tom Mitchell has been in dynamic form this season and could go head to head with the 2016 Brownlow Medallist.

The Hawks should lift for Hodgey’s 300^th, but the Cats have more class and polish and should be able to get it done to stay in touch with the Giants and Adelaide. It could be yet another epic between these two great modern rivals. Geelong by 8 points.

 

STAR OF THE GAME: Luke Hodge plays his 300th match on Saturday. SOURCE: SEN.

 

Port Adelaide v North Melbourne

Just when Port Adelaide seemed set to beat a top 8 team, results earlier in round 16 pushed their opponents West Cosat out of the 8 by the time the clubs met in the final game of the round. The football gods love irony it seems.

It takes nothing away from the Power’s most impressive victory of 2017, interstate against a team that is tough to beat at home. 8 goals in the last quarter at Subiaco is a mighty effort, the Eagles succumbing to the visitors run and carry through the centre of the ground.

Charlie Dixon was strong up forward and finished with 5 goals, while Robbie Gray showed his class in slotting 3 majors. Brad Ebert, Travis Boak and Ollie Wines all leading from the front after being criticised for failing to lift when required against Richmond the week earlier.

They now return home to take on 17^th placed North Melbourne, who had yet ANOTHER tight loss last week, losing by four points to Fremantle at Docklands. Todd Goldstein’s tough season got tougher, missing a routine set shot from 25 metres out in the final minute that would have won the game.

I’m not sure North Melbourne fans could get any more frustrated with their team, but you wouldn’t know as they don’t tend to turn up to support their team anyway, as shown by the poor crowd last Sunday.

A trip to Adelaide is not an appealing one, particularly with the Power keen to push their top four credentials. Rookie Cameron Zurhaar will make his AFL debut, recruited from East Fremantle.

Young defender Logan Austin plays his first game of the season for the Power, having recovered from a broken ankle sustained in the final round of last year. Jack Hombsch makes way after being convincingly beaten by Jack Darling last week.

Can’t see the Roos going to the Adelaide Oval and returning back to Arden Street with the points, but nothing would surprise in this season. Power to be too good. Port Adelaide by 35 points.

Gold Coast v Collingwood

The two coaches under the most pressure in the competition right now are Gold Coast’s Rodney Eade and Collingwood’s Nathan Buckley.

Both of their sides are well off the pace and unlikely to make finals, and with both being out of contract at seasons end, any further poor performances from here will not be tolerated and could spell the end for both at their respective clubs.

Considering the media attention for both men during the week it’s quite fitting the clubs face off this weekend at Metricon Stadium, the temperature likely to reach boiling point for the losing coach.

Both teams are coming off dispiriting losses in round 16, but welcome back important personnel for the Saturday twilight fixture.

Gary Ablett is back for the Suns, along with fellow first choice midfielders Aaron Hall, Pearce Hanley and forgotten man Michael Rischitelli, who plays his first games in 12 months after a knee reconstruction.

The Pies welcome back Daniel Wells from another calf injury, along with Jarryd Blair, Darcy Moore and Jeremy Howe. Levi Greenwood headlines the exclusions for the Pies, out with suspension.

With some vital inclusions for both sides this looms as a better contest than first anticipated, but the Suns have more potency up forward than the Pies who have struggled to kick a score all season. ‘Rocket’ to get one over his former colleague Bucks here. Gold Coast by 24 points.

 

UNDER PRESSURE: Rodney Eade faces an uphill battle to keep his coaching job in 2018. SOURCE: Gold Coast Bulletin.

 

Greater Western Sydney v Sydney

The Sydney Derby. The battle for the bridge. It could be one of the games of the season, but it’s of more interest to those outside of the state itself than those within it. But at least look on the bright side New South Wales folk, at least a team from the state will win that one, unlike in State of Origin. It may rain on Saturday night, but it will more than likely just be tears from Sydneysiders after the result in game 3 on Wednesday. Those Queenslanders too good once again.

The Giants are coming off back to back draws against Geelong and Hawthorn and appear on the slide slightly despite being equal top of the table. A game against the inform team of the competition in Sydney looms a great test to see where Leon Cameron’s team is at heading towards the business end of the season.

Steve Johnson, Toby Greene and Zac Williams are all welcome inclusions for the home side, Sam Reid out with an ankle injury to make commentators jobs that little bit easier in this one, his namesake lining up at full forward for the Swans.

Sydney welcome back skipper Josh Kennedy after he was a late withdrawal against the Suns, young gun Oliver Florent the player to make way. Gary Rohan kicked 5 goals to continue his good recent form, while Lance Franklin looms as another match winner.

Could be one of the games of the season here, and if the Swans are genuine contenders they need to beat a team like GWS in the run to the finals. Despite the fact it’s at Spotless Stadium, the Swans midfield is in form and can give their team a decisive advantage. Sydney by 7 points.

Melbourne v Adelaide

TIO Stadium in Darwin isn’t the worst place to play when it’s the heart of winter in your home state. It will present a different challenge altogether for both the Demons and the Crows, particularly the latter who play at the venue for the first time in their history.

The heat and humidity of the Northern Territory will make skills and ball handling difficult for players, which probably brings the Dees in to the game, the Crows with superior skills by foot and by hand.

The Crows welcome back Tom Lynch from illness and rookie Hugh Greenwood from a week’s rest to strengthen their side for the match, Don Pyke’s team out for revenge after a shock loss to the Dees at home in round 8. Wayne Milera is out with a calf concern, while veteran Scott Thompson has been dropped.

The Dees have recalled Jay Kennedy-Harris at the expense of Billy Stretch, Kennedy-Harris’ pace to be handy in the humid conditions

The Crows should have too much forward firepower for the Dees, particularly with Lynch back to partner in form duo Josh Jenkins and captain Taylor Walker up front. Don’t discount Eddie Betts, Charlie Cameron and Mitch McGovern either. Adelaide by 15 points.

 

GUTSY WIN: Melbourne players celebrate their hard fought 8 point win over Carlton. SOURCE:  The New Daily. 

 

Richmond v Brisbane

Oh Richmond. Like the Tigers of old. What was that last week? Horrific. That’s what it was. Sure, it was only their second poor performance of the season, but this was from the 2016 Richmond school of poor.

A 92-10 half time scoreline reflected the poor performance, and while they added some respectability to the scoreline in the last term it was too little too late.

Despite a seemingly soft round 17 match up with bottom placed Brisbane, the Tigers cannot afford to drop this one or risk their whole season falling apart. That road win over Port Adelaide could all be for nothing after all.

Richmond welcome back Nick Vlaustin and Anthony Miles for the match, adding some experience to the squad. Ivan Soldo will partner Toby Nankervis in the ruck, while ex-Swan Districts player Nathan Broad is in for his first game of the season.

Recently re-signed Josh Schache is back for the Lions to give them another avenue up forward, while fellow youngsters Ben Keays and Cedric Cox get another chance to impress at AFL level. Rohan Bewick has been dropped after playing his 100^th AFL game last week, Archie Smith and Matthew Hammelmann joining him for a stint in the NEAFL.

The Lions play some good football at Docklands and should pose a challenge for the Tigers here, but the boys in yellow and black should have enough class to get it done. Richmond by 28 points.

Carlton v Western Bulldogs

Carlton have no doubt improved this year, but they still sit in 16^th spot. They are now a competitive AFL side again, a far cry from the last few weeks of the Malthouse era. Now the challenge is to win the close games, something they have struggled to do this season bar a brilliant win over the Giants in round 12.

They lost not only the game but also their most important player last week in Patrick Cripps, who is done for the season with a leg injury sustained in the second quarter against Melbourne.

The Blues were in front in the last quarter once again against the Dees, but couldn’t close it out to record a 6^th win of the season.

They now face a wounded Western Bulldogs side who appear to be almost down and out, having produced their worst performance of the Luke Beveridge era last week against Adelaide.

The fact the match is at the MCG rather than Docklands will also aid the Blues, who play a dour defensive game style at the home of football.

Alex Silvagni is one of the 5 inclusions for the Blues, Simon White and David Cunningham joining Cripps on the sidelines due to injury.

The Bulldogs welcome back Robert Murphy, as well as premiership player Shane Biggs, but lose four of their flag heroes from last year in the process, Easton Wood (suspended) Matthew Boyd (Achilles) Clay Smith and Fletcher Roberts (dropped) all out of the side. Young South Australian Lewis Young will debut for the Dogs.

If the Bulldogs can’t beat the Blues, they may as well pack up and start their end of season trip now. Nothing against Carlton, but they shouldn’t get within 5 goals of the reigning premiers if they are any good. Then again, maybe the boys from the Whitten Oval aren’t any good anymore. Western Bulldogs by 34 points.

 

BITTER BLOW: Patrick Cripps will miss the remainder of the season with a leg injury. SOURCE: SBS.

 

Fremantle v West Coast

Western Derby 46. The last at Subiaco Oval. All of a sudden, it looms as a fascinating game with the Eagles on the slide and the Dockers capable of matching it with most teams in the competition.

West Coast have won the last four Western Derbies to restore order in Perth, having dominated early battles between the clubs before Fremantle dominated for three quarters of a decade.

The Dockers secured a gritty win over North Melbourne last week, rookie debutant Ryan Nyhuis kicking four goals in a memorable debut. Recruited from the Northern Territory, what made Nyhuis’ debut even more incredible is that he has played nearly all of his football as a defender.

Having played as a defensive forward on Robbie Tarrant, will Nyhuis take on Jeremy McGovern this weekend? We shall wait and see, but the high flying Eagle looms as a key player to stop if the Dockers are to beat their cross-town rivals.

Josh Kennedy is back for West Coast, and looms as almost the most important player on the ground, having won the previous two Ross Glendenning Medals with 7 and 6 goal hauls. Jack Darling has also been in good form, with 7 goals in his past two matches.

The Dockers need more options in attack, with small forward Michael Walters their most potent player up forward. Shane Kersten and Brennan Cox need to stand up for the Dockers and at the very least compete to give their team a chance.

The home crowd will be behind the Dockers here, making the Eagles task that little bit tougher despite also playing on their home patch. Having been run off their feet by the Power last week, they will need to play four quarters of quality football to beat Ross Lyon’s men.

Tipping the Eagles to record a 26^th derby win, Lewis Jetta the surprise tip from me to win the Ross Glendenning Medal. West Coast by 24 points.

 

GUESS WHO’S BACK: Josh Kennedy returns for his first match since round 10 thanks to calf injury. SOURCE: Triple M.

 

By Jacob Landsmeer.

Jacob Landsmeer is a sports broadcaster on 91.3 Sport FM in Perth. He blogs here at zombiecrowscricket. Follow him on Twitter: @jlandsme_93

AFL Round 16 Preview: Dogs Face Crows in Crucial Adelaide Oval Clash

It’s almost crisis time for the Western Bulldogs. 15 rounds in to their premiership defence, Luke Beveridge’s team sits at 7-7, playing well short of their best and in desperate need of a spark as the season gets toward its critical stages.

The loss to the Eagles reflected their season to date- playing 30 minutes of good football, but being largely below their best. While they closed to within a point late in the match, it would have been daylight robbery had they emerged victorious, West Coast leading almost all day.

A trip to Adelaide to face the Crows looms as a tough contest, Don Pyke’s men trying to find their best form after a couple of underwhelming showings against Hawthorn (loss) and Carlton (narrow win).

It’s already been a tough week for the Dogs, with news revealed mid-week that forward Tom Boyd has been diagnosed with clinical depression and will take time away from the game. He’s the second Dogs player to reveal a struggle with his mental health this season, Travis Cloke also taking time away from the game.

A trip to play in the city of churches may be the best thing for the Dogs, to get away as a group and become a galvanised unit once again. After all, in their premiership triumph adversity bought out the best in the team in red white and blue.

It sets up a fascinating contest to start round 16 of the 2017 AFL season. Here is a complete preview of the round.

 

DOG OF A DAY: Bulldogs players trudge from the ground after the loss to the Eagles last Saturday. SOURCE: Zimbio.

 

Adelaide v Western Bulldogs

Can the Bulldogs stop this premiership hangover? Anyone got a remedy? Everyone has a go to option for hangovers don’t they? Bacon and powerade for me.

It’s been a tough season for the reigning premiers. Their first month was impressive enough, but it was papering over some significant cracks as time would eventually show. Now at 7-7 with injuries and form slumps to key personnel, the Dogs are approaching the point of no return.

While people will continue to talk about the feats of this Bulldogs side last year, that seems a distant memory right now. Very few Dogs have hit the heights of 2016 more than four months in to this season, and time is running out to turn it around.

A trip to Adelaide means it is unlikely to get easier any time soon, the second placed Crows difficult to beat on their home patch. Don Pyke’s men have lost defender Kyle Hartigan to a hamstring injury, while rookie Hugh Greenwood has been rested after an impressive start to his career at AFL level. Jonathon Beech has lost his place.

Andy Otten looks set to slot in to defence to replace Hartigan, while livewire forward Charlie Cameron will add some spark up front. Forgotten veteran midfielder Scott Thompson has been selected for the first time this season, the 307 game player having to bide his time in the SANFL so far this season.

The Dogs lose no less than three players to injury, continuing their poor run on the injury front in recent weeks. In form ruckman Tom Campbell misses with an abdominal strain, having had an impressive fortnight averaging 48 hitouts per game.

Shane Biggs misses with a calf complaint, while captain Robert Murphy is out with another hamstring injury. Tory Dickson has been dropped after just 10 touches and 1 goal against the Eagles.

The Crows have slipped up twice at home this season, giving hope to the visitors that they can make the trip to Adelaide and still emerge victorious. Unfortunately for the team from the Whitten Oval, they have been far too inconsistent to be a genuine threat for me here. A loss will see them slip to 7-8, and facing an uphill task to defend their premiership come September.  Adelaide by 26 points.

Hawthorn v Greater Western Sydney

Ah, the Hawks and the Giants in Tasmania. Remember a few years ago when Alastair Clarkson lost it at a reporter asking him how much he expected his team to beat a young Giants outfit at the airport? Good times.

That seems a world ago now, with the Hawks no longer the powerhouse side of the competition, the Giants arguably taking their place on the throne. It sets up an intriguing contest at York Park in Launceston, the Hawks coming off back to back wins and setting their sights on what would be an unlikely finals appearance.

I’ve said this a few times, but the Hawks really are the villain in an action film that simply can’t be killed. They continue to defy the odds despite being largely written off by most pundits, only sitting two games outside of the 8.

Their win against Collingwood was gutsy, overcoming a couple of stern challenges at different stages to emerge victorious by four points. They lose experienced defender Grant Birchall once again, this time to a knee injury.  The four time premiership player has played just 5 of a possible 15 games this season due to jaw and knee ailments. Kade Stewart is his replacement for the trip to the apple isle.

The Giants lose veteran Steve Johnson to a knee niggle, as well as youngster Jeremy Finlayson who sadly hurt his knee on debut in the draw to the Cats last Saturday night. Harry Perryman and former Docker Tendai Mzungu come in to the team.

You wonder how many more injuries the Giants will cop before it begins to hurt their premiership credentials, but at 10-3-1 they have remained stoic at the top of the table for a large chunk of the season.

Beating Hawthorn in Tasmania would be a significant step for the AFL’s newest club, having gone down by 83 points in their only previous contest at the venue in 2013. Jeremy Cameron and Jonathon Patton loom as hard players to stop here, and I expect the Giants may have just a little too much class for the aging Hawks. Greater Western Sydney by 11 points.

 

A FAMILIAR PATTON: Jonathon Patton celebrates one of his four goals in his teams draw with Geelong last Saturday. SOURCE: Daily Telegraph.

 

Essendon v Collingwood

Anyone able to get a read on these two teams? Good luck working them out. The Bombers are pretty good on their day, but they don’t make it their day often enough, as shown in the last two weeks with fourth quarter fadeouts costing them dearly against Sydney and Brisbane. BRISBANE! With all due respect to the Lions, if you want to be playing finals, you should be brushing them aside with ease.

The Magpies season is on life support after a loss to Hawthorn, now sitting at 5-9 with the pressure intensifying on Coach Nathan Buckley. While they are competitive nearly every week, they have not been able to eke out the wins required to keep their head above water this season so far.

The 4 point loss to Melbourne on Queens Birthday followed by a mid-season bye robbed their season of momentum, with losses to Port Adelaide and Hawthorn coming after their week off.

A lack of forward options continues to hurt the Pies, who have lost youngster Darcy Moore to a hamstring injury for this match, Tom Phillips also out with illness. Jackson Ramsay loses his place after only 9 touches against the Hawks last weekend.

Ben Reid comes back in to the side and is likely to play forward, while Travis Varcoe plays his first match since round 6 after a series of hamstring injuries. Josh Smith also looms as a handy inclusion.

Experienced but injury prone midfielder David Myers is back for the Dons, Kyle Langford the only casualty from the 8 point loss to the Lions.

Really hard one to tip, but backing the Dons to rebound and keep their finals hopes alive. Magpies just about done with a loss here. Essendon by 14 points.

Sydney v Gold Coast

Okay, I was sceptical at first. But our worst fears have been realised. The Swans are back. From 0-6, to genuine contenders on the cusp of the 8. Who would have thought? Well most people, because the Swans have a way of getting it done.

Their top end talent is too good to bomb out completely, and since their loss to Hawthorn in round 10 the Sydneysiders have been the form side of the competition. They disposed of the Dees at the MCG last Friday night in a spiteful game, their class evident from the outset.

The Suns had an impressive win themselves over North Melbourne in Gary Ablett’s 300^th game last weekend, but lose their former captain for the match against the Swans due to a hamstring concern. Recruit Pearce Hanley joins him on the sidelines with the same ailment, in a bitter blow for the Suns.

It seems as though the footy gods have something against Rodney Eade and his side, as every time they have looked in good touch and on the verge of back to back wins, injury has struck to key players.

Tom Lynch at least found some form once again with a five goal haul against the Roos, and if his team is to win this one he will need to fire in a likely match up with Heath Grundy.  The Suns had some outstanding contract news during the week, with co-captain Steven May signing a contract extension.

The Swans go in unchanged, in form and full of confidence. They will be tough to beat here, but the Suns should be competitive and make them earn it. Sydney can’t afford a slip up at any stage from here on in. Sydney by 35 points.

 

300 AND OUT: Gary Ablett starred in game 300 last week against North Melbourne, but is out of this weekend’s match against Sydney with a hamstring injury. SOURCE: Daily Telegraph.

 

Brisbane v Geelong

One of the great wins for Brisbane in recent years last Sunday against the Bombers. Mainly because sadly there aren’t many to pick from in recent seasons, but the fact they overcame a 27 point deficit early in the last quarter to win interstate as a young team without arguably their best player makes it one of the more impressive wins in 2017 by any side.

Whether or not they can back that up against the might of Geelong remains to be seen, but the positive news for the Lions and their supporters is that there are signs of genuine improvement with their young group, giving them hope and optimism for the future. Players appear to be keen on staying rather than going, an improvement on recent seasons in the Voss-Leppitsch era.

The Cats are on the road for the second straight week having played in Sydney last Saturday night, playing the season’s first draw against the Giants. They have been on the Gold Coast preparing throughout the week, a pretty good way to spend a week in the cold of winter. Hopefully for Chris Scott’s team they are able to win, as it may set an exciting yet dangerous precedent for teams travelling up North. Look out local establishments if the Cats are victorious.

Both teams regain important their captains for this clash, Dayne Beams making a remarkable recovery from an AC joint injury to take his place in the side, having missed only one week with the injury. Joel Selwood is back having been withdrawn late last week due to the after effects of his concussion sustained against Fremantle in round 14.

The Cats may have uncovered a cult hero in waiting last week, with beanpole forward Wylie Buzza emerging as another forward target. Commentators love the name, and you get the impression they may get a chance to say it a few times in this one.

Expecting the Cats to do it easily enough, but in this crazy season who can ever be sure? Not me. Geelong by 49 points.

St Kilda v Richmond

Okay, I’m wary of getting too excited about Richmond. If ever a team has left you hanging at the footballing alter, it’s the Tigers. But that was an outstanding win interstate last week.

Sure, the Victorian media get carried away when teams win on the road and overlook interstate teams winning in Melbourne, but the Tigers were immense as a unit in disposing of the Power with a mighty second half that saw them outscore the home side 8 goals to 3.

Dustin Martin was at his dynamic best once again, while young small forwards Dan Butler and Tyson Stengle (on debut) shared 5 goals between them. Now the challenge is whether they can back it up against the Saints under the roof on a Saturday night, Alan Richardson’s side also coming off an impressive win on the road against Fremantle.

The match will be an emotional one for Nick Riewoldt, as it will be the second instalment of ‘Maddie’s match’ honouring his late sister Maddie who passed away from bone marrow failure in 2015.

A portion of ticket sales will go towards funding, research and awareness to fight bone marrow failure syndromes. The Saints will also wear purple, Maddie’s favourite colour to honour her memory, the first time the Saints haven’t had red on their jumper in their history.

St Kilda have made 3 changes to a winning side, Daniel McKenzie, Shane Savage and Ben Long all coming in to the team for the Saturday night fixture. Jimmy Webster is out due to suspension, while Maverick Weller and Luke Dunstan are two high profile omissions.

Taylor Hunt is the only inclusion for the Tigers, Oleg Markov dropped after a quiet night against the Power.

Both teams like to move the ball with pace, so this should be an exciting contest from the outset. A 6 day break returning from an interstate trip may count against the Saints here, backing the Tigers in a close one. Although we know how those normally end up… Richmond by 10 points.

 

AN EMOTIONAL MATCH: The Riewoldt’s, Jack (left) and Nick (right) embrace following the inaugural ‘Maddie’s Match’ in 2015. SOURCE: St Kilda FC.

 

North Melbourne v Fremantle

North Melbourne has made an art form out of losing the close ones in 2017, much like Richmond. But the Roos maybe just take the cake, having lost four games by under a goal this season. One of those was to their round 16 opponents Fremantle back in round 5, a match they largely dominated before a late collapse.

The Dockers have had two tight finishes themselves in recent weeks, losing by 2 points against Geelong and then suffering a 9 point defeat at home to St Kilda last Sunday. Fremantle made a habit of winning the close ones early in the season, but have been hit by a dose of reality mid-year.

It would be no surprise to see a close match here at Docklands, both teams seemingly a fair way off the pace in terms of finals contention. Both teams regain some important players for this contest, but also lose some at the same time.

North Melbourne regain the services of tough midfielder Ben Cunnington and role player Trent Dumont, while Daniel Neilson will make his AFL debut. Jarrad Waite is out with a calf injury, Mason Wood has hurt a calf and Jamie McMillan a finger in a bitter blow to the Roos hopes in this match.

Fremantle are without Cam McCarthy due to suspension, while veteran Aaron Sandilands’ season is over after sustaining a significant hamstring injury early against St Kilda. They regain Stephen Hill and Connor Blakely, while hero of the round 5 victory Shane Kersten is likely to return.

Think North Melbourne may just edge Fremantle here, they deserve some reward for effort this season. The Roos are certainly far better than their 4-10 record suggests. Look out for the ruck battle between Todd Goldstein and Freo youngster Sean Darcy. North Melbourne by 9 points.

Melbourne v Carlton

The Dees are running out of reinforcements. Just when it looked like the planets were aligning for the competition’s oldest club, injuries have hit and are taking their toll.

Jack Viney was added to the casualty list last Friday night against Sydney, as was Dom Tyson with a knee complaint. It compounded a poor night for the Dees, who went down by 35 points in a spiteful game at the MCG. Tomas Bugg was given a 6 week holiday by the AFL tribunal for his hit on Callum Mills, meaning another soldier down for a match against an improving Carlton side.

Brendon Bolton’s side went within a whisker of defeating second placed Adelaide at the MCG last weekend, even hitting the front in the final term before the Crows steadied to prevail by two goals. Of all the surprises in season 2017, one of the most enjoyable has been the performances of Carlton, who despite possessing a young list are competitive most weeks and have recorded 5 wins on the season.

A look at the ladder shows they are in 16^th, but it has been a season of significant improvement for the Blues. They have a terrific recent record against the Demons, having won 9 of the past 11 games between the teams.

‘The Kreuzer Cup’ match seems many moons ago now, nearly ten years in fact but Carlton fans are starting to see the bright side of securing Kreuzer with the first pick in the 2007 draft. He has been in immense form this season, averaging 15 disposals and 31 hitouts per game. His battle with Max Gawn will be crucial to the outcome of this match.

The Demons will welcome back Jesse Hogan, in wonderful news for the club and competition having overcome testicular cancer. It’s been a tough year for the Claremont product, who lost his father to the illness earlier in the year. Former Carlton forward Jeff Garlett also returns for the Dees to strengthen their side.

The Blues could claim another major scalp here with all of the injuries curtailing Melbourne, the Dees needing a win desperately with a tough few matches ahead. Going with the Blues in an upset. Carlton by 8 points.

 

GREAT TO SEE HIM BACK: Jesse Hogan returns to the side after overcoming testicular cancer. SOURCE: SEN.

 

West Coast v Port Adelaide

The Eagles may have learnt how to fly again. It’s only a small sample size, but the win over the Dogs at Docklands last Saturday could be the result that gets the interstate monkey off the back of the team in blue and gold.

They have dropped two of their past three matches at home however, and need to continue their positive few weeks with a win at home against Port Adelaide in the final game of the round.

They will once again be without Josh Kennedy, the two time reigning Coleman Medallist still not quite right after sustaining a calf injury in round 10. It gives Jack Darling another chance to impress as the key target in attack, coming off his best game in 12 months against the Bulldogs.

Brownlow Medallist Matt Priddis and club best and fairest Mark LeCras also return to add some experience to the side, while Scott Lycett plays his first game of the season after shoulder surgery late in the pre-season. Jack Redden, Chris Masten and Tom Cole have all been dropped, while Sam Butler misses with a hamstring injury.

The Power continue to show they are flat track bullies, yet another loss against a top 8 team at home last Saturday. Now 15 rounds in, Port Adelaide have put together a body of work that suggests they aren’t good enough to match it with the best when it counts.

Pretenders is the word, and the only way to change that perception is to beat a good team. This looms as a good game to start that quest. Jack Hombch returns to help tackle a tall Eagles forward line, while Joe Atley (brother of North Melbourne’s Shaun) will make his AFL debut.

They lose the experienced Matthew Broadbent to an ankle injury, while Jake Neade loses his place after a quiet match against the Tigers.

The Power won the last match between the sides at Subiaco Oval back in 2014, West Coast having won the 3 most recent matches at the Adelaide Oval. Going with the Eagles at home, but both teams at a similar level in 2017. West Coast by 17 points.

 

BACK IN: Matt Priddis returns after a weeks rest to strengthen the Eagles side for their match against Port Adelaide. SOURCE: West Coast Eagles FC.

 

By Jacob Landsmeer.

Jacob Landsmeer is a sports broadcaster on 91.3 Sport FM in Perth. He blogs here at zombiecrowscricket. Follow him on Twitter: @jlandsme_93