Dees rally to hammer Giants

Demon Michael Evans celebrates kicking one of his three last quarter goals against GWS. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: Herald Sun

IT took a club-record scoring spree for Melbourne players to deflect the crushing focus on coach Mark Neeld, for the time being anyway.

The last quarter smashing of Greater Western Sydney at the MCG was, remarkably, the first time one of the league's foundation clubs had kicked 12 goals in a quarter.

But, rather than dwell on stats, Demons fans would ponder why it had to come to that against the young, eager, but inexperienced Giants.

Neeld won't have endured a more harrowing couple of hours in his coaching career as he plotted feverishly to set up the structures that would eventually deliver the long overdue first win of the season for the Demons.

Jeered off the field after his address at three-quarter time, he could at least sit back and enjoy the last 10 minutes after substitute Aaron Davey slotted his second goal within four minutes to make the game safe.

Staring at a 19-point last-quarter deficit and poised to be the butt of embarrassing jokes all week, the Demons dug deep.

Still, it took until the 12-minute mark to grab back the lead for the first time since midway through the second quarter after a set shot from co-captain Jack Trengove.

And when spring-heeled forward Jeremy Howe steered through a goal from the junction of the boundary line and the 50m arc, there was no stopping the red and blue surge that overwhelmed the brave Giants.

Melbourne players celebrate the much-needed win over GWS. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: Herald Sun

Led by ruckman Mark Jamar and nut-hard onballer Nathan Jones, the Demons seized control in the midfield and enabled the run and overlap that led to them kicking an astonishing 12.2 in the last term.

"Honestly, I can't remember the message (at three-quarter time). We just knew we had to have a crack, put our head over (the ball), still keep running hard and still keep doing all the things you would do, even when you're in front," Jamar said.

"As the scoreboard suggested, we were very much in the game. We were up and about. I don't think we cleared the first one (centre bounce), but we stuck at it and eventually it went our way.

"All the planning you do during the week, that's when you can execute it. You just don't turn up on game day and hope it goes well. We would've been up in clearances in the last quarter and credit to the guys."

The question was whether Melbourne had the correct strategy from the start to take on the Giants' young legs in a shootout. Or whether they would have been better suited to use their experience and stronger bodies to lock down, particularly when GWS capitalised on fast breaks in the third term.

Melbourne's Jeremy Howe soars high above the pack. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Maybe the Demons weren't capable of such a disciplined defensive plan. And in the end they backed themselves to win the battle of minds and bodies.

So, did the prospect of defeat ever cross Jamar's mind?

"Nah, I know the belief was there for the whole four quarters. We had a few goals kicked against us, but we fought through it. Credit to the boys for sticking at it," he said.

Neeld made a crucial move by throwing Davey into the fray with his speed and evasive skills late in the third quarter. Davey and Michael Evans ran amok inside the forward 50 to contribute five goals of the deadly dozen in the lopsided final term.

Mark Neeld can rest easy knowing his job is safe for at least another week Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Melbourne was wasteful early, stricken by skill errors from players over-anxious to hit the scoreboard. At least the commitment was there, the desire to work hard when they didn't have the ball.

It was a nervous Sunday afternoon for long-suffering supporters who had watched their boys dominate in general play but fail to build a sizeable lead.

But eventually Melbourne's desperation helped bury the Giants, as emphasised by the Demons laying 83 tackles compared to their average of 48 in the first three rounds of the season.
 

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Daw KO'd on debut

Kangaroos medicos call for help after Majak Daw concussed in an accidental head clash. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

Majak Daw leaps over the pack to take a spectacular mark. Source: Getty Images

THE cruel reality is that Majak Daw probably won't remember his first AFL game.

But like a grandfather taking his grandkids through past glories, Daw's teammates will paint him a vivid picture.

And unlike the old man, there will be no need for exaggeration.

Daw will hear how he started deep in the forward line opposed to Irishman Niall McKeever in something of a multicultural match-up.

And that despite McKeever's attempts to rough him up, within 60 seconds he had set Etihad Stadium alight.

The North boys will tell him that he waited for Daniel Wells to bomb the ball to the Lockett end where he soared from behind - and then above - McKeever to take one of the purest one-grab marks you'll ever see.

Daw will be reminded that despite all the adrenalin in the world pumping through his veins, he went back with the poise of a 200-game veteran to slot the game's first goal from 45m.

Then he will be told that every single Kangaroos player on the ground went to embrace him on the 50m line in scenes of jubilation.

All this within the first 60 seconds of the match against the Brisbane Lions.

With straight faces, Daw's teammates will tell him his one act of brilliance caused Lions coach Michael Voss to change the match-up and send Joel Patfull to his side.

Daw may recall outmarking Daniel Merrett - for that doesn't come easily - a few minutes later in the pocket. He composed himself but sent his shot across the face.

North Melbourne players celebrate Majak Daw's first ever AFL goal. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

At the 11-minute mark he wreaked havoc by leaping third-man up at a ball-up to create an opportunity for Lindsay Thomas.

Daw might shake his head when informed that he was cheered off the ground for his first breather after 13 minutes and that, upon his return, the Roos cheersquad rose as one to welcome him back inside 50m.

It was the stuff of dreams, they will say.

But then, they'll get to the reason why Daw can't hold on to the precious memories of a debut more than three years in the making.

The Sudanese giant swooped on a loose ball at centre half-forward and was slung in a tackle by Merrett that caused him to clash heads with teammate Ben Cunnington.

Flat on his back, arms splayed, he was out cold.

The players will tell him they could feel the excitement being sucked out the ground, for this was a thrilling 20-minute taste of the big time that was over all too soon.

Daw was officially subbed out of the game by quarter-time, but you'll struggle to find a sexier two kicks, one handball, two contested marks, one hit-out and 1.1 return on a footy stat sheet.

Indeed, Majak does happen.
 

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Crows crush hapless Dogs

Crows star Patrick Dangerfield bursts away on his way to booting four goals against the Dogs. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

INFLUENTIAL Adelaide midfielder Patrick Dangerfield kicked four goals as the Crows trounced a hapless Western Bulldogs by 52 points on Sunday.

Adelaide kept the Bulldogs scoreless for almost an hour of game time during their comprehensive 12.8 (80) to 4.4 (28) win at AAMI Stadium.

The Dogs' score was their lowest total against Adelaide and they didn't score a goal from late in the first quarter until late in the last term.

Dangerfield booted the Crows' initial three goals, his teammates Richard Douglas, Scott Thompson and Rory Sloane formed a winning midfield, and Andy Otten and Ben Rutten were superb in defence.

In a match marred by early heavy rain and strong winds, the visitors were well served by Adam Cooney (two goals) and skipper Matthew Boyd, while Will Minson and Tom Liberatore battled gamely as the Dogs lost their third game this year.

The Bulldogs trailed by one point at quarter-time but didn't score at all in the second term as Adelaide created a 15-point lead at halftime, 4.5 to 2.2.

The Crows continued to strangle their visitors in the third quarter, booting 5.2 to one point - Bulldog Brett Goodes hit the post in the 24th minute to register the visitors' first score in 58 minutes of game time.

Cooney capped his sterling 30-disposal game with the Bulldogs' third goal in the 22nd minute of the final term - after he booted their second in the 27th minute of the first quarter.

The Crows, now with two wins and two losses, travel to play Carlton on Saturday while the Dogs host unbeaten Geelong on Saturday night.

Patrick Dangerfield tumbles during the Crows' win over the Western Bulldogs at AAMI Stadium. Picture: Simon Cross

Daniel Talia spoils Liam Jones. Picture: Simon Cross

Adelaide celebrate a Sam Kerridge goal - and the win. Picture: Simon Cross

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SuperCoach studs and duds

Geelong captain Joel Selwood bursts out of the middle to drive the Cats forward. Picture: Philip Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph

WHO were the Nissan SuperCoach stars this week and who stunk it up on the big stage?

ADELAIDE 80 defeat WESTERN BULLDOGS 28

Crows studs: Rory Sloane (146) had a field day with 29 disposals including eight clearances and seven tackles. Richard Douglas (131) went bang with eight inside 50s while Dangerfield and Otten enjoyed solid 120-plus games.

Crows duds: Jason Porplyzia (8) didn't get much of a run starting as the substitute. Luke Brown (66) improved on last week while Sam Jacobs (77) finished with 38 hit outs.

Dogs studs: Adam Cooney (136) was the standout on a dog of a day for the club. The Brownlow medallist finished with 30 touches including 10 clearances. Tom Liberatore (134) unleashed in the midfield with 33 possessions. Goodes cracked the ton again as did Will Minson.

Dogs duds: Liam Jones (27) clunked two marks. Daniel Giansiracusa (39) was substituted out of the match while Ryan Griffen (53) operated at just 13 per cent disposal efficiency.

MELBOURNE 144 defeat GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY

Demons studs: A red-letter day for the Dees who piled on 12 goals in the last quarter. Shannon Byrnes (three goals) led the way with 128 points. Jack Grimes next best on 120 points followed by another six Dees in triple figures. Matthew Evans the surprise packet with three last-quarter goals for career-high 116.

Demons duds: Jack Viney (9) slammed into the rookie wall after four AFL games. Mitch Clark (48) spent time off the ground with a foot injury. 

Giants studs: Dylan Shiel (111) tried his guts out to keep the Giants in the game. Tom Scully put in one of his best performance in orange and grey with 26 touches and nine inside-50s.

Giants duds: Jeremy Cameron (47) played a bit part role after a quiet first half. Toby Greene (75) got plenty of the ball, 27 disposals, but was unable to make them count.

GOLD COAST 66 lost to PORT ADELAIDE 104

Suns studs: Gary Ablett (131) played a lone hand with 35 disposals including 15 in the first quarter. Charlie Dixon, Jarrad Harbrow and Jaeger O'Meara also cracked the ton.

Suns duds: Michael Rischitelli (43) and David Swallow (45) found the going tough against a resurgent Power outfit.

Power studs: Kane Cornes (160) ran amok collecting 35 disposals and 16 marks. He also chimed in with six rebound 50s. Justin Westhoff's (149) form continued with three goals while Hamish Hartlett (144) slotted three of his own.

Power duds: Campbell Heath (60) could only muster 16 disposals while ruckmen Brett Renouf (56) and Matthew Lobbe (45) toiled away combining for 32 hit outs.

WEST COAST 65 lost to CARLTON 89

Eagles studs: Scott Selwood (128) amassed 32 disposals including eight tackles and seven clearances. Mark LeCras (124) was the most dangerous Eagles on the field.

Eagles duds: Andrew Gaff (54) didn't get a lot of it on the wing while Josh Kennedy (68) crashed back down to earth unable to kick a goal.

Blues studs: Chris Yarran (131) cut the Eagles to ribbons with his speed kicking four goals. Brock McLean (127) picked up 29 disposals at 86 per cent efficiency.

Blues duds: Chris Judd (60) had a quiet night by his lofty standards. Kade Simpson (72) could only manage the 21 disposals including four clangers

ST KILDA 91 lost to ESSENDON 128

Saints studs: Just the three Saints in triple figures led by Leigh Montagna (114) and Clint Jones (110).

Saints duds: Terry Milera (17) was substituted out of the match while Nick Dal Santo (70) had a tough night against Heath Hocking.

Bombers studs: A regulation 37 disposals and 138 SuperCoach points for the skipper last night. Brent Stanton and Brendon Goddard locked on 117 points apiece.

Bombers duds: Not a lot wrong with the way the Dons went about it. Courtenay Dempsey (71) registered a couple of clangers while giving away two free kicks.

RICHMOND 79 lost to COLLINGWOOD 113

Tigers stud: JUST two Tigers cracked the ton - Cotchin (106) and Maric (101). Mind you, Deledio wasn't far away with 99.

Tigers dud: JUST 34 for Alex Rance. Ricky Petterd (49) also had a quiet day on the big stage. Dusty Martin was held to 80 after a trademark quiet second half, well down on his 150 last week.

Pies stud: SWAN, Cloke, Sidebottom. They all scored 130-plus. If you've got that trifecta, lock in a "W" this week. A sore Pendles racked up 105.

Pies dud: BRENT Macaffer came back but only finished with 58. Still, that'll ensure a price rise for all those who held onto him. Jordan Russell finished with 42, while Daisy Thomas had 24 - but he started as the sub. That means he'll be a bargain in about a month.

HAWTHORN 118 def FREMANTLE 76

Hawks stud: EIGHT Hawks "tonned up" in the big win, headlined by Shaun Burgoyne (153). Grant Birchall is proving a super pick after 152, while Buddy's four goals converted to 16 points.

Hawks dud: "Dud" might be harsh, but just a modest 85 from Sam Mitchell. That's two sub-100 scores in as many weeks. Luke Hodge crashed back to finish with 68 after last week's heroics.

Dockers stud: ONLY Mundy and Fyfe cracked the ton. Yikes.

Dockers dud: NICK Suban wins this award by a mile. Ross subbed him after just one kick, a clear sign he's on the outer. Jon Griffin churned out 67, a dip after his impressive start to the year.

SYDNEY 103 lost to GEELONG 124

Swans studs: Kieren Jack (130) was the pick of the Swans dominating the clearances and inside-50s. The son of an NRL gun amassed 29 disposals including 10 inside-50s and eight clearances to go with three score assists. Nick Malceski (123) pulled one out of the box picking up 28 touches including 11 rebound 50s.

Swans duds: Lewis Jetta (30) shocking run continued against the Cats. The excitement machine could only manage seven disposals. To make matters worse he gave away three free kicks. Luke Parker (43) crashed back down to earth while Shane Mumford (68) won the ruck duel with 30 hit outs.

Cats studs: Joel Selwood (163) take a bow. 31 disposals, 10 tackles and eight clearances in standout best afield performance. Harry Taylor (125) enjoyed his foray forward while George Horlin-Smith (105) and Mathew Stokes (103) provided plenty of grunt around the stoppages.

Cats duds: Billie Smedts (38) was substituted out of the match while Jimmy Bartel (70) could only muster 17 disposals.

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Ablett, Pies will play through pain

Jay Clark and Scott Gullan say Matthew Leuenberger is the hot SuperCoach buy for Round 4 and offer a left-field captain choice

Scott Pendlebury fires off a handball at Collingwood training. Source: Getty Images

GARY Ablett, Scott Pendlebury and Travis Cloke might not be 100 per cent but they will play this weekend. And did Essendon let a late move out of the bag? To find out more, step into the Panic Room.

WHISPERS

We love a bit of body language and intrigue at training.

This morning James Hird grabbed Nathan Lovett-Murray and put his arm around him for a quick chat. The veteran hasn't been involved so far this season but is named on the emergency list for tomorrow's clash against St Kilda.

Given the Bombers are playing next Thursday as well, don't be surprised if they look at resting anyone who even has the slightest niggle with Lovett-Murray looming large as the man to get the nod.

The person who won't be rested is key forward Michael Hurley, who again ran around with his wrist strapped taking marks and kicking goals without discomfort. James Hird is adamant he will play.

Across town the Pies are equally adamant Travis Cloke will play despite dislocating a finger at training. Midfielder Scott Pendlebury has battled soreness all week but he also moved freely this morning and is certain to play against the Tigers.

Another superstar who will defy injury is Gold Coast captain Gary Ablett, with his swollen hand not expected to keep him out of the clash against Port Adelaide and close mate Ken Hinkley.

Geelong star Steve Johnson travelled to Sydney with his teammates yesterday after convincing the medical staff that his knock on the knee wasn't enough to put him in the stands.

At the Whitten Oval, youngster Jake Stringer will be named for his debut in Adelaide on Sunday despite lacking match fitness after only recently returning from an ankle injury. 

Gold Coast Suns skipper Gary Ablett in action against Collingwood. He picked up more than 50 possessions in this match. Picture: Michael Dodge. Source: The Daily Telegraph

SUPERCOACH ALERT

The Crows sandbagged this kid for a year so you would think he might have some form of ability.

Brad Crouch missed Round 1 but has been a fixture in the midfield for the last couple of weeks which means his price of $115,900 will rise after this weekend.

The aim in the early rounds is to make money so get Crouch in for one of the other young guns whose price has already risen after three rounds. You will thanks us down the track for this one.

Adelaide Crows youngster Brad Crouch is ready to make his debut in round one. Picture: Simon Cross. Source: Sunday Mail (SA)

MONEY MATTERS

Embarassing. Humiliating. Reputation ruining. That's the only way to describe how we are feeling after given Melbourne two weeks of our love. They have been banned forever now we we hope you accept our apology. This week we are liking St Kilda and Carlton as definite upset possibilities while hoping Ross Lyon gets angry and makes the Tassie clash with Hawthorn a low-scoring boring affair.

Round 4 bet:

Fremantle +35.5 $1.82
St Kilda +13.5 $1.95
Carlton +18.5 $1.90
North Melbourne -23.5 $1.90
= $7.57

Sam Edmund, Jay Clark and Ben Dixon join Brad Johnson to discuss their picks ahead of round 4.

ON NOTICE

Jarryd Roughead

There are a lot of SuperCoach fans who are calling for this one. In the pre-season we fell in love with Roughy as a defender and figured he was set for something special. Instead, he has plodded around in the forward line kicking six goals in three games without really showing too much to get excited about. A depleted Fremantle in Tasmania sounds like the perfect environment to find some groove again.

Jarryd Roughead snaps at goal. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

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Swan misses mate in 200th

Dane Swan tries to find a way past Dale Thomas at Collingwood training. Source: Herald Sun

DANE Swan is not one to get sentimental.

He says his 200 game milestone doesn't mean a lot to him and expects nothing more than "a handshake from most of the boys'' in recognition of his achievement at the MCG tomorrow.

He still doesn't like team meetings and isn't keen on the media scrutiny that comes with being a star of the game.

But he does love his mates, a couple of whom - teammate Ben Johnson retired defender Chris Tarrant - he credits with turning his career around.

So it is with a touch of disappointment, Swan said today, that he will run out on to the MCG to face Richmond without Johnson by his side after the veteran midfielder was ruled out with a calf injury.

"He's the bloke I warm up with every week and have trained with every week that I can remember,'' Swan said.

"So it's a little bit disappointing to not have him out there, but I have no doubt he'll help me celebrate when the time's right.''

In 2005 Swan was on the brink of exile with his unprofessional approach to training testing the patience of coaches and off-field issues testing the patience of administrators.

And while he admitted the negative publicity he has drawn over time hasn't made him totally change his ways - "I've kept making blues so obviously not, I keep getting put on the front of the paper'' - his on-field exploits have taken an unquestionable turn for the better.

Dane Swan has a laugh with good mate Ben Johnson at Collingwood recovery. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Herald Sun

And he said that is largely thanks to Johnson and Tarrant.

"Johnno has always been a great runner and a great trainer out on the track so in the pre-season (of 2005-06) he just said, 'Run with me for as long as you can'.

"I'd ... drop off pretty quickly, but just try and hold on to Ben for as long as possible.

"For those that know Ben he hasn't lifted a weight in his life, and Chris Tarrant clearly has lifted weights before so I just hopped in to the weights room with him. He made me do everything he did.

"So I can attribute a lot of my success towards those two because they wanted me to be around, they obviously liked me and thought I had something to offer ... they forced me to do things that I wasn't necessarily doing.''

The 29-year-old said he has no immediate plans to retire when his current contract expires at the end of next season.

"I can't look any further than that because so many things can happen, no one might want me and I might have no choice but to finish up,'' he said.

"But if I'm still going well, all things being equal I'd like to play on for a couple more years. Once I get to that age it's probably going to be only one-year deals, I'm not going to be silly like Trav (Cloke) and ask for a five-year deal.''

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Teams: Dees dump Toumpas

Demon Jimmy Toumpas juggles the ball at training during the week. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

MELBOURNE has dumped No.4 pick Jimmy Toumpas for Sunday's must-win match against Greater Western Sydney.

Toumpas has played bit part roles for the Demons after making his debut in Round 1 as the substitute.

But Demons coach Mark Neeld has gifted No. 1 draft pick Jack Watts an instant reprieve despite the struggling defender not playing football at any level last week.

Watts was named in a back pocket ahead of Sunday's critical clash against Greater Western Sydney.

Scroll down to see all the Round 4 teams

Ruckman Max Gawn, who has not played since 2011, is also set to return after being named in the starting 18.

Watts was axed last week but, instead of playing for VFL affiliate Casey, was taken to the MCG on standby ahead of the Eagles clash.

"Jack missed last week's game, based on his training form, attitude and the way we want to set our backline, he gets another opportunity to show what he can do," Dees football manager Josh Mahoney said.

The Demons will name their omissions tomorrow, when the 25-man squad is trimmed to 22.

NORTH Melbourne ball magnet Liam Anthony has beaten off Kangaroos Will Sierakowski and Levi Greenwood for a spot in Sunday's team.

Anthony is joined by boom Kangaroos debutant Majak Daw in the best 22.

Daw is set to become the first Sudanese born player to make his AFL debut.

BRISBANE is set to unveil rebounding defender Sam Docherty and key post Marco Paparone on Sunday at Etihad Stadium.

Both played in the Lions successful NAB Cup campaign and have continued their good form in the NEAFL.

The Western Bulldogs have been decimated further by the loss of star Robert Murphy.

The stand-in captain injured his calf and joins Shaun Higgins (foot), Easton Wood (hamstring) and Tory Dickson (ankle) as forced changes ahead of the clash with Adelaide on Sunday.

The Dogs have also lost young midfielder Lin Jong with a broken leg.

But skipper Matthew Boyd will face the Crows, while prized draft picks Jackson Macrae and Jake Stringer are both named in the squad and likely to debut.

VIDEO: See Macrae's trick bag with this exclusive Pick Me highlights reel

Welcome to the major league, lads: Jake Stringer and Jackson Macrae after being selected at No.5 and No.6 by the Western Bulldogs. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

A settled Richmond made no changes ahead of its blockbuster clash against Collingwood.

The Magpies brought back youngsters Paul Seedsman and Josh Thomas at the expense of veteran Ben Johnson (calf) and Jack Frost.

Geelong has regained defender Jared Rivers for Friday night's match against Sydney, while George Horlin-Smith also returns at the expense of Travis Varcoe (shoulder) and Jordan Murdoch.

Ultimate Round 4 SuperCoach formguide

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ROUND 4 GAMES

SYDNEY v GEELONG, 7.50pm Friday at the SCG

SYDNEY
B: L.Roberts-Thomson, H.Grundy, N.Smith
HB: M.Mattner, T.Richards, N.Malceski
C: R.O'Keefe, K.Jack, L.Jetta
HF: J.Bolton, S.Reid, D.Hannebery
F: M.Pyke, A.Goodes, B.McGlynn
Foll: S.Mumford, J.Kennedy, J.McVeigh
I/C: T.Armstrong, M.Morton, L.Parker, D.Rampe
Emerg: C.Bird, A.Everitt, J.White

In: M.Morton , D.Rampe
Out: C.Bird (omitted) , A.Everitt (omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Josh Kennedy doesn't look like slowing down anytime soon. Currently the third-most expensive player in the league behind Scott Pendlebury and Gary Ablett, he leads the competition for contested possessions and ranks sixth for clearances.

GEELONG
B: T.Hunt 19, T.Lonergan 13, C.Enright 44,
HJ.Corey 11, H.Taylor 7, A.Mackie 4,
C: M.Duncan 22, J.Bartel 3, B.Smedts 2,
HF: P.Chapman 35, J.Podsiadly 31, S.Motlop 32,
F: T.West 12, T.Hawkins 26, S.Johnson 20
Foll: M.Blicavs 46, J.Selwood 14, M.Stokes 27,
I/C J.Rivers 25, J.Caddy 23, G.Horlin-Smith 33, A.Christensen 28,
Emerg: J.Murdoch 21, M.Brown 1, J.Thurlow 40

In: J.Rivers , G.Horlin-Smith
Out: T.Varcoe (Shoulder) , J.Murdoch (Omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Jimmy Bartel finished with 27 disposals, 10 contested possessions, three tackles and a combined seven inside 50s/rebound 50s when he last came up against the Swans at the SCG in Round 13 last season. His tally of 97 points was the third-best return of any Cats player for the match.

HAWTHORN v FREMANTLE, 1.45 pm Saturday at Aurora Stadium

HAWTHORN
B: J.Gibson 6, R.Schoenmakers 25, L.Hodge 15
HB: S.Burgoyne 9, B.Stratton 24 G.Birchall 14
C: L.Shiels 26, Mitchell 5 B.Hill 10
HF: P.Puopolo 28, L.Franklin 23, I.Smith 16
F: J.Gunston 19 , J.Roughead 2, L.Breust 22
Foll: D.Hale 20, C.Rioli 33, J.Lewis 3
I/CT.Duryea 41, M.Bailey 39, M.Osborne 7, B.Guerra 18
Emerg: S.Savage 21, B.Lake 17, A.Litherland 31

In: M.Osborne
Out: J.Anderson (hamstring)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
With scores of 103 and 122 points in his first two matches, expect to see Luke Hodge's price skyrocket after his next match. He finished with 31 disposals, 17 contested possessions, four clearances, six inside 50s and two goals last week against Collingwood.

FREMANTLE
B: L.Spurr 34, Z.Dawson3, M.Johnson37
HB: N.Suban 8, L.McPharlin 18, P.Duffield 41
C: T.Mzungu 13, R.Crowley 15, C.Pearce 46
HF: M.De Boer 9, K.Bradley 26, N.Fyfe 7
F: H.Ballantyne 1, C.Mayne23, M.Walters10
Foll: J.Griffin12 D.Mundy16, S.Hill 32
I/C: M.Barlow 21, D.Pearce 6, C.Sutcliffe 33, L.Neale 27
Emerg: J.Hannath 38, H.Crozier 17, Tanner Smith 22

In: L.Neale
Out: M.Pavlich (Achilles)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Michael Barlow was one of very few winners for Fremantle when they last played at Aurora Stadium in Round 8 last season, amassing 98 points. He finished with 27 disposals, 11 contested possessions, four clearances, seven inside 50s and six tackles.

RICHMOND v COLLIGNWOOD, 2.10pm Saturday at the MCG

RICHMOND
B: S.Morris 38, A.Rance 18, T.Chaplin 25
HB: D.Grimes 2, R.Petterd 13, B.Houli 14
C: C.Newman 1, T.Cotchin 9, R.Conca 30
HF: B.Deledio 3, S.Edwards 10, D.Jackson 23
F: L.McGuane 16, J.Riewoldt 8, T.Vickery 29
Foll: I.Maric 20, D.Martin 4, S.Tuck 21
I/C: B.Ellis 5, J.King 28, S.Grigg 6, C.Knights 15
Emg: J.Batchelor 11, R.Nahas 26, N.Vlastuin 31

NO CHANGE

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Ivan Maric is one of only four ruckmen to score at least 100 points in all three matches this season. Despite averaging fewer hitouts compared to last year he has been more effective, recording a career-high hitout-to-advantage rate of 38 per cent.

COLLINGWOOD
B: N.Brown 16, A.Toovey 34, B.Reid 20
HB: M.Clarke 9, H.Shaw 39, H.O'Brien 8
C: S.Sidebottom 22, D.Swan 36, D.Thomas 13
HF: J.Elliott 19, T.Cloke 32, Q.Lynch 21
F: B.Sinclair 28, T.Goldsack 6, S.Dwyer 41
Foll: B.Hudson 25, S.Pendlebury 10, J.Blair 11
I/C: A.Fasolo 1, J.Russell 2, J.Thomas 24, P.Seedsman 40
Emg: B.Macaffer 3, B.Kennedy 27, J.Frost 45

In: J.Thomas, P.Seedsman
Out: B.Johnson (calf), J.Frost

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Dane Swan will be looking to celebrate his 200th AFL game this week against Richmond in style. His record against the Tigers since 2009 has been outstanding, averaging 151 points per match – scoring a combined 145 more points than any other player at the club.

ESSENDON v ST KILDA, 4.40pm Saturday at Etihad Stadium

ESSENDON
B: C.Dempsey, J.Carlisle, M.Baguley,
HB: C.Hooker, T.Pears, B.Stanton,
C: J.Winderlich, J.Watson, D.Zaharakis,
HF: B.Howlett, D.Hille, S.Crameri,
F: A.Davey, M.Hurley, B.Goddard,
Foll: T.Bellchambers, D.Heppell, H.Hocking,
I/C: J.Melksham, J.Merrett, M.Hibberd, D.Myers,
Emerg: T.Colyer, N.Lovett-Murray, S.Gumbleton

In: D.Hille , J.Winderlich , T.Pears , M.Baguley , J.Merrett
Out: P.Ryder (Suspension) , T.Colyer (Omitted) , N.Kommer (Suspension) , E.Kavanagh (Omitted) , D.Fletcher (Groin)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Paddy Ryder's three-game suspension is a massive blow to over 25,000 coaches, especially after he recorded a whopping 145 points last week against Fremantle. A straight swap for a similarly priced Sam Jacobs is the way to go.

ST KILDA
B: N.Wright, T.Simpkin,D.Roberton
HB: J.Geary, R.Stanley, S.Gilbert
C: N.Dal Santo, L.Hayes, S.Fisher
HF: L.Montagna, N.Riewoldt, T.Milera
F: S.Milne, B.Maister, A.Saad
Foll: B.McEvoy, D.Armitage, J.Steven
I/C A.Siposs, C.Jones, T.Lee, F.Ray
Emerg: T.Hickey, S.Ross, T.Dennis-Lane

In: T.Simpkin , A.Siposs
Out: J.Blake (omitted) , J.Newnes (jaw)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Nathan Wright hit the ground running on debut last week against the Giants, collecting 67 points from 89% game time. He finished with 22 disposals (82% disposal efficiency), 13 handball-receives and three rebound 50s. A good bench option for your defence.

WEST COAST v CARLTON, 7.40pm Saturday at Patersons Stadium

WEST COAST
B: W.Schofield 31, D.Glass 23, J.Brennan 14
HB: S.Hurn 25, E.Mackenzie 16, S.Butler 26
C: D.Kerr 4, M.Priddis 11, C.Masten 7
HF: J.Cripps 15, J.Kennedy 17, M.LeCras 2
F: A.Hams 43, J.Darling, 27, J.Hill 33
Foll: D.Cox 20, S.Selwood 10, L.Shuey 13
I/C: A.Gaff 3, A.Selwood 37, B.Dalziell 18, C.Sinclair 22
Emg: M.Brown 1, M.Hutchings 34, As.Smith 28
In: E.Mackenzie , B.Dalziell
Out: M.Brown, A.Embley (foot)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Scott Selwood dominated when he last came up against Carlton at Patersons Stadium in Round 12, recording 33 disposals, 14 contested possessions and four clearances. He shut Chris Judd down and racked up 155 points himself – the second-best return of any player on the ground.

CARLTON
B: C.Yarran 13, M.Jamison 40, L.Henderson 23
HB: Z.Tuohy 42, D.Armfield 27, B.Gibbs 4
C: K.Simpson 6, A.Carrazzo 44, M.Robinson 12
HF: C.Judd 5, A.Walker 1, J.Garlett 38
F: E.Curnow 35, S.Hampson 22, S.Rowe 17
Foll: R.Warnock 11, M.Murphy 3, B.McLean 14
I/C: A.Joseph 45, K.Lucas 9, H.Scotland 29, S.White 43
Emerg: D.Buckley 7, D.Ellard 46, N.Duigan 34

In: R.Warnock , E.Curnow , S.White
Out: M.Kreuzer (broken thumb) , M.Davies (hamstring) , D.Buckley

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Sam Rowe's price will rise this week after he plays his third match. He was Carlton's leading target inside 50 last week against Geelong, finishing with 10 disposals, four marks, two goals and 77 points.


GOLD COAST v PORT ADELAIDE, 7.40pm Saturday at Metricon Stadium

GOLD COAST
B: J. Wilkinson, M. Warnock, J. Hutchins
HB: T. Murphy, R. Thompson, G. Broughton
C: M. Rischitelli, G. Ablett, J. Harbrow
HF: D. Prestia, S. May, A. Hall
F: J. Brennan, S. Day, B. Matera
R: C. Dixon, K. Hunt, D. Swallow
INT: Z. Smith, J. O'Meara, H. Bennell, M. Shaw
EMERG: L. Russell, T. McKenzie, D. Stanley

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Jared Brennan led all scorers in last week's clash against Brisbane with 30 disposals and 146 points.

PORT ADELAIDE
B: Tom Jonas, Alipate Carlile, Cameron O'Shea
HB: Jasper Pittard, Jackson Trengove, Lewis Stevenson
C: Kane Cornes, Brad Ebert, Travis Boak
HF: Matthew Broadbent, Justin Westhoff, Angus Monfries
F: Robbie Gray, Jay Schulz, Chad Wingard
Foll: Matthew Lobbe, Hamish Hartlett, Oliver Wines
Int: Campbell Heath, Brent Renouf, Domenic Cassisi, Jake Neade
Emerg: Tom Logan, Sam Colquhoun, Andrew Moore

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Justin Westhoff continued his stellar start to the season with four goals and 150 points against local rival Adelaide. Westhoff is the highest-scoring player in the cometition with an average of 138 points.

MELBOURNE v GWS, 1.10pm Sunday at the MCG

MELBOURNE
B: J.Watts 4, J.Frawley 8, D.Terlich 46
HB: N.Jetta 39, T.McDonald 25, C.Garland 20
C: J.Trengove 9, J.Grimes 31, J.Viney 7
HF: A.Davey 36, M.Clark 11, J.Howe 38
F: L.Tapscott 35, M.Gawn 37, S.Byrnes 10
Foll: M.Jamar 40, C.Sylvia 12, N.Jones 2
I/C (from): J.Toumpas 5, C.Pedersen 21, J.Sellar 30, M.Evans 32, J.Spencer 42, R.Bail 44, M.Jones 45

In: J.Spencer , J.Watts , M.Gawn
Out: -

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Melbourne ranks 18th for inside 50 differentials this season, averaging 30 fewer per match compared to its opposition. This has had a major impact on its forwards, as highlighted by Mitch Clark's price fall of $36,600 – the biggest of any Melbourne player.

GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY
B: A.Kennedy 40, T.Mohr 39, P.Davis 1
HB: T.Bugg 14, S.Gilham 38, N.Haynes 19
C: T.Scully 9, C.Ward 8, R.Palmer 7
HF: J.Townsend 31, J.Cameron 18, S.Reid 23
F: L.Sumner 28, S.O'hAilpin 37, S.Frost 48
Foll: J.Giles 26, A.Treloar 17, D.Shiel 5
I/C (from): S.Coniglio 3, T.Golds 15, T.Greene 4, A.Miles 25, L.Plowman 30, A.Tomlinson 20, L.Whitfield 6

In: S.O'hAilpin, R.Palmer, A.Miles, T.Golds, A.Tomlinson, J.Townsend, S.Frost, N.Haynes
Out: D.Brogan (suspension) , C.Hampton, W.Hoskin-Elliott, D.Smith (suspension) , J.Patton (knee)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Jon Patton's season-ending knee injury last week against St Kilda is a cruel blow for the youngster and the competition as well. If you haven't got the funds to upgrade him, then trading down to rookie Sam Mayes is an option worth considering.

ADELAIDE v WESTERN BULLDOGS, 3.15pm Sunday at AAMI Stadium

ADELAIDE
B: L.Brown 16, B.Rutten 25, A.Otten 22
HB: D.Mackay 14, D.Talia 12, B.Reilly 3
C: R.Sloane 9, S.Thompson 5, S.Kerridge 29
HF: M.Wright 11, J.Jenkins 4, R.Douglas 26
F: J.Petrenko 23, T.Walker 13, R.Henderson 45
Foll: S.Jacobs 24, P.Dangerfield 32, B.Crouch 2
I/C (from): M.Jaensch 10, G.Johncock 18, T.Lynch 27, J.Lyons 31, S.McKernan 35, J.Porplyzia 40, R.Laird 46

In: T.Lynch, S.McKernan, S.Kerridge, R.Laird, J.Lyons
Out: N.van Berlo (knee), B.Vince

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Like Adelaide themselves, Patrick Dangerfield has struggled to get going this season, suffering the fifth-biggest price fall of any midfielder in the AFL. Receiving plenty of attention from the opposition, he has had to win more of the ball from a contest than ever before, recording a contested possession rate of 61 per cent.

WESTERN BULLDOGS
B: T.Young 31, J.Roughead 23, L.Picken 42
HB: J.Johannisen 39, D.Morris 38, B.Goodes 44
C: J.Macrae 11, M.Boyd 5, K.Stevens 25
HF: R.Griffen 16, L.Jones 19, D.Giansiracusa 13
F: J.Tutt 15, A.Cordy 49, L.Dahlhaus 6
Foll: W.Minson 27, N.Lower 33, A.Cooney 17
I/C (from): M.Wallis 3, D.Cross 4, J.Stringer 9, C.Smith 14, T.Liberatore 21, C.Howard 30, L.Markovic 37

In: M.Boyd, L.Markovic , A.Cordy , J.Tutt , C.Howard , J.Stringer , J.Johannisen , J.Macrae
Out: R.Murphy (calf), S.Higgins (foot), E.Wood (hamstring), T.Campbell, T.Dickson (ankle)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
If you haven't got Brett Goodes in your side now then I'm afraid you have missed the boat. He has taken the most kick-ins of any player in the competition after three rounds and just enjoyed a $96,800 price increase – the biggest of any player in the AFL.

NORTH MELBOURNE v BRISBANE LIONS, 4.40pm Sunday at Etihad Stadium

NORTH MELBOURNE
B: S. McMahon 42, S. Thompson 16, M. Firitto 11,
HB: A. Mullett 41, N. Grima 17, J. MacMillan 34,
C: D. Wells 8, S. Atley 18, R. Bastinac 3,
HF: B. Cunnington 10, D. Petrie 20, T. Hine 26,
F: L. Thomas 12, T. Goldstein 22, L. Adams 13,
Foll: M. Daw 38, A. Swallow 9, J. Ziebell 7,
I/C: S. Gibson 43, L. Hansen 6, S. Wright 19, L. Anthony 4, L. Greenwood 24, W. Sierakowski 28, B. McKenzie

In: L. Anthony, L. Greenwood , W. Sierakowski, M. Daw, B. McKenzie
Out: R. Tarrant (leg), K. Harper (omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Andrew Swallow has averaged 119 points per game against Brisbane since 2009 – recording a combined 168 more points than any other player at the club. He has averaged seven clearances and tackles per match in that time and is a super option this week.

BRISBANE LIONS
B: J.Adcock, D.Merrett, A.McGrath
HB: S.Docherty ,J.Patfull, A.Raines
C: S.Mayes, T.Rockliff, P.Hanley
HF: D.Zorko, J.Brown, J.Green
F: J.Redden, S.Martin, N.McKeever
Foll: M.Leuenberger, D.Rich, B.Moloney
I/C from: R.Harwood, R.Bewick, M.Paparone, P.Karnezis, J.Polkinghorne, M.Golby, J.Crisp

In: R.Harwood, P.Karnezis, J.Crisp, M.Paparone, S.Docherty
Out: J.Polec (foot), E.Yeo (omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
Dayne Zorko has been a shadow of the player he was last season, averaging 30 fewer points per game – the second-biggest fall of any Brisbane player. His defensive play is one area of his game that has dropped off, averaging three fewer tackles per game.

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LIVE: Swans v Cats

Geelong recruit Josh Caddy will start as the substitute in tonight's match against Sydney. Picture: Mike Dugdale Source: Geelong Advertiser

SYDNEY sharpshooter Mitch Morton will start as the substitute for tonight's match against Sydney at the SCG.

The former Richmond and West Coast forward booted 11 goals in the NEAFL last week making him almost impossible to be overlooked at the selection table.

Meanwhile, Geelong goes into the match unchanged with young gun Josh Caddy as its substitute.

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The Cats will be hoping the inclusion of Jared Rivers can help shore up its backline as the Swans talls and smalls look to exploit their rivals inside the arc.

Sydney piled on 11 goals against North Melbourne during the third quarter last week with the likes of Ben McGlynn and Jude Bolton doing most of the damage.

But the Cats boast plenty of firepower close to goal with the rapid improvement of Allen Christensen and Mathew Stokes as goalkickers.

Ultimate SuperCoach form guide

Tom Hawkins is well placed to take the game by the scruff while James Podsiadly will also bob up and make the most of his opportunities.

Sydney looks to have the ruck battle at its mercy with in form Mike Pyke and Shane Mumford too experienced for Cats athlete Mark Blicavs and Trent West.

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Demetriou backs silent James Hird

AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou says James Hird is innocent until proven guilty. Picture: Tony Gough Source: Herald Sun

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou has refuted reports he called for James Hird to step aside from his position as coach of Essendon while the ASADA investigation continued.

Speaking at a sponsors lunch for the GWS Giants in Sydney today, Demetriou declared Hird is doing the right thing by not commenting about his conduct in the media.

"What I said was James Hird when he was going through his thought process I'm sure that (stepping aside from his coaching job) is one of the things he's considering, that's exactly what I said,'' Demetriou said.

"I didn't call for him to stand down at all.

"I don't think he should at all put it (his case) in the public forum, he's absolutely doing the most appropriate that he's responding to the investigation in accordance with the process of the investigation."

Today, Bombers high performance manager Dean Robinson - known as "The Weapon" - spoke for the first time about the toll of the scandal.

Robinson has been stood down pending investigations by ASADA, the AFL and the club.

"(My) wife's been in hospital, she's been in hospital for two-and-a-half weeks, so it's taken its toll," he told Channel 7.

"These things are stressful but we as a family have come together so we'll keep getting through this and stick strong.

"At the end of the day the truth will come out."

Fitness boss Dean Robinson with senior coach James Hird. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Demetriou also said Hird and the Essendon Football Club are entitled to be viewed as innocent until proven guilty.

"He's entitled to go through that process,'' Demetriou said.

"I don't get it when a media outlet says when they put 17 questions and he refuses to answer them why they think he should answer those questions from the media.

"They're not investigating him, he's being investigated by ASADA.

"He is entitled as an individual to the presumption of innocence, something we should all hold very sacred in this country.

The strain shows on James Hird emerges from a meeting at Windy Hill. Picture: Mike Keating Source: Herald Sun

While the Essendon coach may be suffering badly in the court of public opinion, the AFL CEO said it had no bearing on the ASADA investigation.

"I don't think the court of public opinion matters at all in this instance because it's a serious issue,'' Demetriou said.

"He's being investigated as part of the Essendon Football Club and he, like several other people and the players included, will be interviewed by ASADA and they may be interviewed again.

"But we have to let that process run it's course so we are all better informed.

"I am no more informed about the progress, I haven't even had a briefing about what happened in his interview the other day.

"ASADA are leading the investigation it'll take time I know people want it done expeditiously, but these things do take time."

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Pavlich to miss six weeks

Matthew Pavlich has been ruled out for 4-6 weeks. Picture: Richard Polden Source: PerthNow

FREMANTLE skipper Matthew Pavlich has been ruled out for up to six weeks after requiring surgery on an achilles problem.

The 31-year-old had struggled through the first three rounds of the year, including a scoreless outing against Essendon last Friday night, following an interrupted pre-season.

The Dockers today revealed Pavlich would require surgery on his left achilles after the injury flared up during the loss to the Bombers.

Fremantle coach Ross Lyon revealed Pavlich had tried to train this morning before the decision was made to go under the knife.

"He started the year really healthy and then got some general soreness through the achilles," Lyon said this afternoon.

"He was playing and playing reasonably well, and then on the weekend, he obviously struggled. So during that game it got worse.

"He attempted to train today and started okay, and then it got to a point where he wasn't comfortable with it and neither were we."

Pavlich has enjoyed a remarkable run with injury through his 14-year career, never missing more than three games in a season since his rookie campaign in 2000.

"Very disappointed about not only missing the flight with the @Fremantle_FC boys to Tassie, but also the next 4 or so weeks of footy," Pavlich wrote on Twitter this afternoon.

"Although flat, I'm pragmatic about the surgery & time off, given my durability and associated luck with injury in my career #chinupson."

Fremantle's key forward stocks are likely to be tested by the setback, with rookie big man Tanner Smith and Peel Thunder teammate Jack Hannath both flying with the squad this afternoon ahead of Saturday's clash with Hawthorn at Aurora Stadium.

"It's not ideal, but it is what it is, and it's a wonderful opportunity for the rest of the team who are in really good shape and playing pretty good footy," Lyon said of Pavlich's absence.

"It's a great opportunity for us to prove we can compete and play really good football without Matthew, which I'm really confident about.

"(Hannath) is a ruckman, played SANFL football, so he's 202cm and quite mobile. Tanner Smith is 196cm, a super athlete, a competitor, and has been playing at Peel forward and back."

However, the Dockers have named midfielder Lachie Neale as the only inclusion for Pavlich in the side's 22.

Key defender Luke McPharlin also made the trip east after recovering from concussion in last Friday night's game.

The Dockers will be attempting to notch just their second win in the club's ninth outing at Aurora Stadium.

Hawthorn only made just one change the side that beat Collingwood last weekend, with Michael Osborne coming in for Rising Star nominee Jed Anderson (hamstring).

Follow Chris Robinson on Twitter: @CJKRobinson

Pavlich's form drop has resulted in the star dropping $60,000 in SuperCoach and averaging just 71 points. He is owned by more than 30,000 teams.

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