Port Adelaide Power

Power Outage

rickb — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 07:41:37 -0500

Rick Browner reporting for AFANA from Subiaco Oval

Port Adelaide Power traveled west in Round 19 after a crushing win over the Hawks last weekend. With their confidence high, they needed to win this game against the lowly ranked Fremantle Dockers to cement their place in the Final Eight. When the nation's two port side teams meet sparks are expected and a tough encounter is the order of the day.

Surprisingly when the game got underway it was without the niggling and bumping that usually precedes every bounce down. Fremantle showed that they were ready to play hard in front of a loyal home crowd and they hunted the ball in packs in the early stages. Robbie Gray kicked the opening goal for the Power and they looked set to steamroll on and dominate the game. Unfortunately, there it ended. It was as though Port thought that all they had to do was turn up because from that point on the Power was definitely on brownout. The Dockers kicked the next six goals in a row through crisp movement of the ball up the middle of the ground. Port looked scrappy and uncommitted in their approach to the game and nothing was going right for them. Australian football is a running game and Port had brought joggers to this match with players flat-footed and pedestrian. A consolation goal late in the quarter gave the scoreboard some respectability but when Kepler Bradley answered with a goal of his own, the Dockers had a commanding 30 point lead.

Coach Mark Williams gave his team a fierce bollocking at the break in an effort to wake them up. This worked briefly with Danyle Pearce scoring first for the Power within minutes of the bounce. Everyone loves the hometown hero stepping up and shining for the team and Fremantle people are no exception. Chris Mayne scored the next three goals for the Dockers with some magical play that belied his youth and inexperience at AFL level. As a result Fremantle were inspired. They chased, tackled and ran the opposition into the ground, so much so that most of the Power seemed to wish they were somewhere else. With a Finals place to play for it was almost unbelievable to see the lackluster display of skills by a team trying to convince the fans they are a contender. Veteran Des Headland looked ten years younger when he leapt high over his unfortunate Power opponent in the middle of the ground for the mark of the day. Minutes later he kicked a goal which saw the Dockers take a big 45 point lead as the half-time siren sounded. The Dockers' fans rose to their feet and applauded their team off the ground after a first half display of football that hasn't been seen at the club in a decade.

Port were on their game early in the second half with Shawn Burgoyne laying a determined tackle to win a free kick and subsequent goal from ten meters out. They controlled the early part of the quarter and looked to have taken their coach's words to heart. Their good work came to an abrupt end when the Dockers fired up again with the help of Headland. His accurate 40 meter pass to Antoni Grover who goaled, and a major of his own, had the home team lifting to overcome Port's pressure. The Dockers took pride in their tackling and combined with good run off the back line the Power were back on the ropes. Fremantle kept the ball locked in their offensive zone on numerous occasions, chasing from behind and making every ball a contest. With four Docker goals to Port's two in the third quarter the only question was how much they would win by. The Dockers took a game high 60 point lead into the final break.

Matthew Pavlich became the eleventh Docker to kick a goal as the final term started but the Power answered with back to back goals. Mayne kicked his fourth but from there the home team ran out of legs. Port Adelaide kicked the last three goals of the match to make the score line slightly more flattering. Had Port played earlier like they did in the last ten minutes, the game would have been much more exciting for both sets of fans.

It was a nightmare weekend for the tipsters with several major upsets. Port have stayed in the top eight but could have done much more to give credence to their Finals campaign. In contrast the Dockers are finishing the season on a high note and their opponents in the last few games of the season will be looking in the rear-view mirror every time they get the ball.

Scoreboard
Fremantle     7.2 11.7 15.11 17.14 (116)
Port Adelaide 2.2  4.4  6.5  11.8  (74)

Best players
Fremantle     S Hill, D Headland, P Duffield, G Broughton, C Mayne
Port Adelaide A Rodan, C Cornes, D Pearce, D Cassisi

Images Posted From Western Bulldogs v Port Adelaide Round 12 2009

dwoodley — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 11:39:12 -0500

David Woodley, reporting for AFANA from Darwin

A photo essay from the Western Bulldogs v Port Adelaide match during Round 12 of the AFL season from TIO Stadium in Darwin, Australia. Click on the images to full size pictures. The full gallery is Western Bulldogs v Port Adelaide Round 12 2009.

Eagles Switch Off Port's Power

rickb — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 08:24:19 -0500

Rick Browner reporting for AFANA from Subiaco Oval

In 2008 West Coast won just four games to finish second last on the Premiership table, their worst finish under coach John Worsfold. A home crowd of nearly 38,000 people at the oval once known as Fortress Subiaco had high expectations that the Eagles of old would return to play. The previous weekend the Eagles had a cracking start against Brisbane only to be over-run by nine points in the last quarter. Port Adelaide Power travelled west to Subiaco, where they have an outstanding record, with one win under their belt and their eyes on another.

The Eagles made best early use of the ball and Ashley Hanson's goal in the first minutes of the game had the home crowd on their feet in good voice. Adam Selwood followed with a second goal soon after and the Eagles looked up and about, tackling hard and determined to put on a show. Port Adelaide on the other hand looked lethargic and lacked commitment in the contests. They had the appearance of a team that thought it only needed to turn up to the ground to get the win. The Eagles goaled again when Quinten Lynch kicked truly from 65 meters, giving the Eagles three majors with the Power scoreless. After a series of behinds, Westhoff kicked Port's first goal in the final minutes of the first quarter which ended with the Eagles in front by fifteen points.

Salopek kicked the first goal for Port in the second quarter, and the crowd held their collective breath as visions of the previous week loomed. However, Lynch repeated his monster kicking skills from 70 meters out and kept the Eagles' slim lead intact. A mistake from Salopek - kicking backwards and hitting the point post - resulted in Daniel Kerr taking a free kick on a tight angle in the forward pocket. His extraordinary "banana kick" saw the Eagles out to a 33 point lead, their biggest in the game so far. Daniel Motlop woke up towards the end of the quarter and used his exceptional ground skills to kick a goal just before the long break to keep Port in the game.

Motlop had a major impact in the third quarter and kicked another goal after some poor skills by the Eagles caused a turnover in the midfield. Kerr kept the Eagles in the lead when he kicked a long goal after a 50 meter penalty was awarded against Port. The penalty reflected the newly-introduced and somewhat controversial rule that penalises a player who continues with a tackle after the play has passed to prevent their opponent from moving to take part in further play up the ground. Port lifted their tackling and work ethic during the quarter and West Coast players looked nervous as Port became more ferocious at stoppages and close play. After a series of skilful possessions Eagle Matt Priddis won the football at the 50 meter line and scored a steadying goal for the Eagles to give them a 44 point lead at the break.

Port continued to be indecisive with their ball disposal while the Eagles maintained their intensity throughout the final term. Daniel Kerr, competing in a ruck contest against two men literally twice his size, grabbed the ball and kicked a goal in an inspirational and game-sealing moment. The 75 degree heat took its toll on players and the sting went out of the game in the latter parts of the final quarter although Port's best player, Motlop, would not concede and kicked another goal with three minutes left in the game to give his side some consolation in defeat. In the end the Eagles ran out 50 point winners in a game that restored some Eagle pride and belief that this season would be better than the last. Port Adelaide headed home looking forward next week to an easier game against last year's wooden spooners, Melbourne.

Best
Eagles: S Hurn, D Glass, D Kerr, A Selwood, D Cox, M Rosa.
Port Adelaide: D Motlop, N Krackoeur, B Ebert, S Burgoyne

Scoreboard
WCE  4.3 10.6 16.8  19.11 (125)
Port 1.6  4.9 8.12  10.15 (75)

More Post Season News

Lisa Albergo — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 13:55:38 -0500

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

Telstra Dome Renamed
While it was under construction, the Dome was known as the Docklands, then it became Colonial Stadium when it opened. Communications giant Telstra then bought the naming rights several years ago. Starting in March, the ground will be known as Etihad Stadium. United Arab Emirates airline Etihad Airways has signed a five year sponsorship deal for the naming rights. The deal also has an option for a further five years. The effective date of March coincides with the airline's first flight into Melbourne next year. Etihad Airways also sponsors British soccer team Chelsea, the Ferrari racing team and the English rugby team Harlequins.

Source: Herald Sun

AFL Drug Warning
The league has taken a page from the Olympics and issued a stern warning to clubs. Should a player be found to have taken performance-enhancing drugs which affect the outcome of a game could see the results be changed. Such change could even be retroactive if evidence surfaced later. According to Andrew Demetriou, even finals would come under the rules. Demetriou added that penalties could include the overturning of match results, fines to the club, loss of premiership points and the club being suspended. Retrospective punishment would require evidence against more than one player, but any single player testing positive on match day would allow the league to take immediate punitive action.

Source: abc.net.au

Frawley For CEO
Former Richmond coach Danny Frawley has been appointed to replace former Demon coach Neale Daniher as CEO of the AFL Coaches Association. A fellow Tiger administrator, Paul Armstrong, has also joined the Association as coaching development manager. Daniher stepped down to take up a position as assistant coach with the West Coast Eagles. Former Essendon coach Kevin Sheedy will remain as the Association president.

Source: Melbourne Age

BRISBANE
Star forward Jonathan Brown has been named team captain. He has served as co-captain for the past two seasons with Simon Black, Luke Power, Nigel Lappin and Chris Johnson (in 2007).

Brown has built an impressive leadership CV over that time. In 2007, he was named the AFLPA Best Captain, was vice-captain of the 2007 All-Australian team and captained the Victorian team in the AFL's celebratory Tribute game this past season. He has also been named the AFLPA"s Most Courageous Player for the past two years, won the Coleman Medal in 2007 and has twice won Brisbane's best and fairest award.

New Coach Michael Voss and his coaching panel decided to revert to the traditional policy of one captain after an extensive review. Voss captained the club 2001-2006. He shared the captaincy role with forward Alistair Lynch 1997-2000. Black and Power will continue as part of the leadership group.

The just retired Beau McDonald has replaced former ruckman Clark Keating as ruck coach. Keating had to step down from his position due to his business interests.
The Vodafone Brisbane Lions wish to advise the following changes to the Club's Football Department in

Irish player Colm Begley has been delisted by the club. Begley was nominated as an international rookie in 2005. He played a total of 29 games for the Lions but was restricted to just eight this past season due to a quad injury. Begley will nominate for the national draft. If that fails, he will go into the preseason draft. Should all else fail, he said he would be content to return to Ireland and resume playing Gaelic football and continue his education.
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Source: afl.com.au & Source: Stephen Buckley, Club Media Release

PORT ADELAIDE
Long time club sponsor Allan Scott passed away in late October at the age of 85. He had been hospitalized and had been ill for several weeks before his death and was surrounded by family at the time of his passing.
Scott, who ran a large trucking firm, was a prominent businessman in South Australia. He began Scott Transport 1952 with just one truck and built it up into a major national and international business. Tributes poured in from all sectors of the community. Club president Greg Boulton said Scott's legacy would always be a part of the club and described Scott as a "hero" of Port Adelaide.

Scott first became involved with Port Adelaide in 1992. He was a joint major sponsor when the club joined the AFL in 1997 and remained a patron of the club. He was awarded life membership last year and helped set up a player development academy at the club, which is named in his honor. The club's training and administration facilities are also named in his honor.

His contributions to Australia, sport and business have also been recognized over the years. In 1986, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia and named South Australian of the Year. In 2006 he was named an Officer in the General Division of the Order of Australia. He also won awards for his service to the transportation industry and, in 2002, was inducted into the National Road Transport Hall of Fame.

Source: Melbourne Age

NORH MELBOURNE
The club, the only one in the competition to have private stockholders, held a meeting in late October to vote on the issue. Members and shareholders voted to dissolve the stocks and revert to a membership based structure. Voters also voted to uphold a board proposal to put a moratorium on board elections until the end of 2010.

Club Chairman James Brayshaw acknowledged the contributions the shareholders had made to the club over the years but said the interests of the club would be best served in the future by membership support. Sixteen former shareholders were nominated as club patrons while six were nominated for life memberships.

Carey Escapes Jail Sentence
Former North Melbourne and Adelaide star Wayne Carey and his girlfriend Kate Neilson appeared in a Miami court in mid-October. Carey was facing serious charges stemming from an incident in a Miami hotel in which he hit her with a wine glass in the hotel restaurant. Carey said he did not mean to strike her with the glass but only intended to toss the wine over her. Prior to the hearing, she wrote a letter stating she would not press charges.

Security staff called police who entered Carey's room while he was asleep. Carey and his lawyer stated he did not realize they were "...genuine police officers...". His lawyer, Richard Sharpstein, further stated that Carey's fame resulted in the incident getting blown out of proportion and that Carey, who reacted "...as anyone would...:" upon being awoken by strangers in his room, did not mean any harm. At the time, Carey was verbally abusive towards the officers and attacked them and was eventually handcuffed. He was subsequently charged with two counts of battery against police and one count of resisting arrest. He pleaded guilty to all charges and was facing a maximum of 15 years in jail. Instead, he was required to write a letter of apology to the officers, attend anger management and alcohol abuse sessions and donate $500 US dollars to a police benevolent fund.

Carey, however, is still not out of trouble. He will again appear in court, this time in Melbourne next February to face charges of assaulting police (three counts) and resisting arrest at his Port Melbourne apartment. He was arrested last January and had to be subdued with pepper spray after a party at the apartment.

Source: Melbourne Age & John Murphy, Club Media Release

WEST COAST
Former Eagle Ben Cousins has applied to be reinstated with the AFL but will be required to undergo a series of tests to prove he is clean from drugs and has remained so for a significant period of time. One of those tests will be a hair test, which can indicate whether a person is using or not for a much longer period than other standard tests. Cousins will have to face the AFL Commission when they meet in November and they will base their decision on medical opinion and advice. That information will include psychological assessments which will, in part, report on his progress in battling his addiction. Should Cousins be re-registered, he could nominate for either the national draft or the preseason draft.

Source: Melbourne Age

Gold Coast News
The group in charge of putting together the proposed Gold Coast team recently presented the AFL Commission with a 400-page document regarding the support infrastructure and other requirements to obtain the AFL license. Andrew Demetriou described the report, prepared by chairman John Witheroff, board member Graeme Downie (formerly of Brisbane) and Coach Guy McKenna, as "impressive" and noted that they had put in a significant amount of work for months to ensure community and business support of the new team. According to Demetriou, the report also showed "...how an AFL team would return significant economic and social...and...sporting benefits to the...community through increased jobs, greater economic and tourist activity and greater opportunities for local families".

As part of the effort to establish support for the Gold Coast team, the AFL has convinced Carlton, St. Kilda and Richmond to each play a "home" game on the Coast over the next two seasons. It is hoped the move would help boost fan support before the team joins the league in 2011. As compensation to members of the three clubs, who are entitled to 11 games in Melbourne, those members will be allowed free entry to any one designated away game over the two years to replace the Gold Coast games.

The three clubs were decided upon due to the large fan support they have in the area. All three have also attracted large numbers to the games they have played at the Gabba (Brisbane) and the Gold Coast Stadium (Carrara) over the past three years. The star attraction of Carlton's Chris Judd, Tiger Matthew Richardson and St. Kilda's Nick Riewoldt and Sam Gilbert are originally from Queensland as are Tigers Luke McGuane and Andrew Raines. Nick's cousin Jack also plays for Richmond.

Carlton CEO Greg Swann, St. Kilda CEO Archie Fraser and Richmond CEO Steven Wright are all enthusiastic about the prospect of their clubs playing up north. All three were in agreement that it presented an opportunity to further increase their clubs' supporter bases in the area as well as help promote the game.

As further compensation to the existing 16 clubs for the potential loss of players to GC17, the AFL will allow rookie elevations next year. The clubs will not have to have a senior player on the long term injury list to elevate a rookie. The elevations will be allowed from midseason next year and in 2010. In previous seasons, a club only elevate a rookie if a senior player was placed on the long term injury list for a minimum of eight weeks. Once that senior player returned, the rookie have to be dropped back. Currently, clubs without veteran listed players can nominate a rookie to play during the season.

A number of current stars began their careers on the rookie list before becoming senior players. Among them are Eagle Dean Cox, Sydney's Brett Kirk, Port Adelaide's Dean Brogan, Magpie Tarkyn Lockyer and Crow Ben Rutten. The Gold Coast club will have access to 16 uncontracted players plus selections 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, and 15 in the 2011 national draft. The current 16 clubs will be allowed compensatory future draft selections for uncontracted players who sign with the new club. The AFL will have a formula in place at that time to determine the draft selection order.

Source: Melbourne Age, canberratimes.com.au, Herald Sun and Patrick Keane, AFL Media Release

RICHMOND
The Tigers are on the verge of signing a guernsey sponsorship deal with AIG (American International Group). This comes in spite of the fact that the company recently received an $85 billion bailout by the US government due to the economic downturn. The American based global insurance and finance company also sponsors British soccer giant Manchester United.

Source: davesfootballblog.com

Troubled Didak Still A Pie

Scott Lockhart — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 23:48:15 -0500

Scott Lockhart reporting for AFANA from Melbourne.

Alan Didak looks set to remain with Collingwood despite being essentially sacked for misconduct just two months ago.

One could be forgiven for being certain that Didak had worn the black and white for the final time after he was suspended by the club for a drink driving accident and his subsequent lies to the football club in August.

Yet just as trade week has arrived it appears that any negotiations of Didak's future with another club have been taken off the table and the former best and fairest winner looks set to remain a magpie to see out the remaining year of his contract.

Port Adelaide looked the most obvious choice for a new home for the native South Australian, but the club now says that Collingwood wont be making any moves at trade week in regards to Didak.

"He's contracted and all the way through his management and Collingwood have been adamant he's staying there and that's the way it's going to be," Port Adelaide football manager Peter Rhode said.

Didak was leading Collingwood's 2008 Best and fairest until his suspension.

Source: Fox Sports.

Round 20 Tribunal Results

Lisa Albergo — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 19:43:32 -0500

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

TRIBUNAL
Charges Laid:

Justin Westhoff (PA), wrestling Collingwood's Nick Maxwell: fined $1200 for a first offense. He accepted, reducing the fine 25% TO $900.

Nick Maxwell (COL), wrestling Port Adelaide's Justin Westhoff: fined $1200 for a first offense. He accepted, reducing the fine 25% TO $900.

Peter Burgoyne (PA), rough conduct against Collingwood's Shane O'Bree: assessed as negligent conduct (one point), low impact (one point) and high contact (two points), equaling four points, in a Level One offense, 125 demerits and a one game suspension. He accepted, reducing the penalty 25% to 93.75 demerits and a reprimand.

Luke Hodge (HAW), striking Richmond's Brett Deledio: assessed as reckless conduct (two points), low impact (one point) and high contact (two points), equaling five points,. a Level Two offense, 125 demerits and a one game suspension. He has a previous record of one game suspended within the past year, increasing the penalty 10% to 137.50 demerits. He also has 91 demerits held over from the past year, further increasing the penalty to 228.50 demerits and a two game suspension. He accepted, reducing the penalty 25% to 171.38 demerits and a one game suspension.

Simon Wiggins (CARL): charging North Melbourne's Leigh Harding: assessed as negligent conduct (one point), low impact (one point) and body contact (one point), equaling three points, a Level One offense, 126 demerits and a one game suspension. He accepted, reducing the penalty 25% to 93.75 demerits and a reprimand.

The match day report against Richmond's Troy Simmonds for rough conduct against Hawthorn's Tom Murphy dismissed. The Match Review Panel (MRP) ruled that there was no bump or forceful contact.

Source: Patrick Keane, AFL Media Release

News From Around The AFL

Lisa Albergo — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 21:27:53 -0500

by Lisa Albergo reporting from AFANA from Chicago

Collingwood Dumps Three

A drunk driving incident after the Round 18 match has resulted in Heath Shaw and Alan Didak being suspended for the remainder of the season by the club. Shaw was driving under the influence when he hit a parked car. Neither Shaw nor his passenger Didak were injured in the incident. Shaw and Didak were not forthcoming with the truth about the incident and the club decided on the suspensions. Both players were also fined by the club with Shaw $10,000 and Didak $5,000. On the same weekend, Heath's brother Rhyce Shaw was also reported to have been out drinking against club rules and fined $5000 as well as incurring a two game suspension. While Heath, who is currently sidelined with a back injury, may have a chance to redeem himself, the club has decided that neither Didak, a serial offender, nor Rhyce will be with the club in 2009. Both will be put on the trade market at the end of the year.

Source: Nick Hulett, Club Media Release

Docker Champ Says Farewell

Shaun McManus retired after the Round 18 game against the West Coast Eagles. McManus leaves the game as the longest-serving Docker, having played 228 matches. He is the last of the inaugural Dockers, having joined the club in their maiden 1995 season. At the time of his announcement, in the week leading up to the game, Coach Mark Harvey and team captain praised McManus, complimenting his courage, passion, commitment, hard work and a resolve to overcome adversity. All those attributes helped him overcome two knee reconstructions in 1997 and 1998. A loss of form in 2005 saw him sent back to the WAFL, but he fought his way back into the seniors.

His best season was in 2006 when the team made it as far as a preliminary final. He went on to play all 22 games in 2007 and was the first Fremantle player to receive a testimonial tribute that year.

Pavlich said McManus was Fremantle and was quoted in a club media release, "When you think Shaun McManus, you think Fremantle.” Pavlich praised McManus for his professionalism and work ethic and said that McManus valued mateship, loyalty and integrity. He also praised McManus' leadership, determination and tenacity, describing his fightback from the knee injuries as inspirational.

Coach Mark Harvey was equally effusive about the hardworking midfielder, saying his desire to compete, tackling and ball-winning ability always impressed the selectors. Harvey said McManus was the type of player who never gave up on the field and helped build the club with his camaraderie and passion for the club.
Incoming CEO Steve Rosich echoed those sentiments, saying there wasn't anyone who had connected more with the club's members and supporters than Shaun.

SHAUN MCMANUS FACT FILE:
DOB: 2/.9/76
Nickname: Macca
Height: 181 cm
Weight: 81 kg
Games: 228 (including round 18)
Finals Games: 4
Goals for FFC: 95
Debut: 1995
Recruited From: East Fremantle
Playing Honors:AFL Rising Star nominee 1995; Fremantle Co-Captain 2000-01; WA State of Origin team 1995, 2003; Fremantle Best Clubman 2002

Source: Luke Morfesse, Club Media Release

Power Comeback Fails

Michael Wilson has been forced to retire due a degenerative knee which has already undergone two reconstructions. Wilson has endured nine surgeries in the past eight years, including the knee surgeries as well as two shoulder reconstructions. He was hoping he could make a comeback, but medical staff advised him that it was not possible.

Michael Wilson:
192 games, 51 goals, 1997–2008
Inaugural AFL Port Adelaide team
AFL Premiership 2004
SANFL Premiership 1995, 1996
Preseason premiership 2001
AFL Rising Star 1997
3rd Best and Fairest 1997 and 2004
Best Team Man 2004
Coach’s Award 2004
Vice captain 2005–2007
Fos Williams Award (players’ choice) 2004, 2005, 2007

Source: Daniel Norton, Club Media Release

Another Krakouer To Jail

Former Tiger Andrew Krakouer and his brother Tyrone have both been sentenced to jail for assault. The incident happened in 2006 in Fremantle. The pair were found guilty of assault on Justin Martin as part of a long-running feud between the two families. According to testimony, Andrew, 25, and Tyrone confronted Martin outside a nightclub and a brawl ensued.

Despite excellent character references from current Richmond players, Andrew was sentenced to 32 months in jail with the possibility of parole after 16 months. His brother received an eight month sentence. Their father, Jimmy, a former North Melbourne player who also did jail time for drug smuggling, was present. Andrew played 102 games for Richmond 2000-2007. He managed only 9 games in 2007 and was delisted at the end of the season.

Source: theaustralian.com.au

Pair Guitly For Records Theft

In August of last year, medical records were stolen from a Melbourne rehab clinic and sold to Channel Seven. The station used the confidential records for a story which implicated several players at an AFL club. It sparked a storm of controversy and station officials were initially told someone had found the documents in the street outside the locked clinic.

Extensive investigations led to a man and woman being questioned and eventually charged with stealing the files. Robert Crouch and Catherine Mitchell, both residents of a Melbourne suburb, will plead guilty to theft charges when they appear in Magistrates Court at the end of this month.

Source: news.com.au

Three Sign With Expansion Team

Several months ago, the AFL put in place plans for two new expansion teams. One will be on the Gold Coast in Queensland and the other will play out of western Sydney. The Gold Coast effort has been proceeding at pace, with a group of investors already in place and the hunt for a senior coach. Both teams are scheduled to debut in 2011 or 2012.. The GC17, as it is currently known until a team name is chosen, has already signed several Queensland players for their inaugural squad. Charlie Dixon from Cairns, Jesee Haberfield and Jack Stanlake from the Gold Coast are all 17 years of age. The trio are the first of 20 Queensland players promised by the AFL to the new team. Those 20 will be drafted to the team in 2009 and 2010 should the GC 17 plan be acceptable to the AFL and a license granted. Any and all players tentatively signed will play in the TAC Cup junior competition or the VFL until they are drafted. If the AFL's criteria is not met, any and all contracts signed by potential Gold Coast players would be void and they would then be eligible for the AFL Draft.

Source: Michelle Morgan, AFL Qld Media Release

Young Man Goes West

I t was previously reported that former Eagle Ben Cousins would play with VFL team Port Melbourne. Cousins recently met with senior coach Gary Ayres. However, last week, Cousins decided not to sign with Port Melbourne, preferring to continue training with WAFL clubs Perth and East Fremantle. Recent reports are that Cousins, who is still hoping he can resurrect his AFL career, will play for WAFL club Perth. While in Melbourne, he also had a series of meetings to discuss a self-produced documentary about his battle with drug addiction.

Source: afl.com.au

Port Power Puts Paid To Dockers Season

janetl — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 02:18:40 -0500

Janet Linn, reporting for AFANA from Subiaco Oval, Perth

Mental toughness has been the top talking point among Western Australian football followers in the past few weeks. With both local teams flailing at the bottom of the AFL Ladder and each failing to deliver consistent and winning performances, fans have been turning to an examination of the psychological components of the game to find answers. The Fremantle Dockers in particular have promised much in recent seasons and were widely tipped to be a Final Eight prospect this year under new coach Mark Harvey. Sunday’s game against Port Adelaide was a make or break moment for the Dockers coming off six straight losses with only one win on the scoreboard. Port were in a slightly better situation with three wins from eight encounters but needed the four points to have any chance of seeing Finals action in September.

The first quarter was an entertaining affair. Fremantle tackled strongly and had winners in Sandilands, Tarrant, Pavlich and McPharlin. For Port, Rodan had a big impact, teaming well with pacy midfielders Motlop and Pearce. The lead changed several times during the quarter and while the skill level wasn’t great with lots of mistakes on both sides, the contest was tight and fast. Scores were level at the 18 minute mark but Fremantle lifted and converted every attempt on goal to lead by 18 points at quarter time. Port’s forward line looked out of sorts with many of their scores coming from poor defensive work by the Dockers.

Port began the second quarter looking flat but a brilliant individual effort by Daniel Motlop turned the tide of the game. His long goal against the general run of play inspired six Port goals in a row with Fremantle held goalless for the quarter. Rodan, Tredrea, Westoff, Pearce and Salopek were dominant and Fremantle had no answers in a hard fought 32 point turnaround by Port. The margin was 14 points in the visitors’ favor at the long break.

A third quarter revival by Fremantle kept the game competitive. Grover opened the tab for the Dockers and Pearce replied with a miracle goal for Port Adelaide. Pavlich was everywhere and team mates Ibbotson, Farmer and Black had a lot of the play. There was some exciting end to end football with both teams strong in defense and on the ball but struggling to find consistent targets in their forward lines. Eventually Rodan broke through to give Port a 19 point buffer only to see McPharlin score a desperately needed goal for the Dockers. A free kick to Thornton in front of the sticks reduced the margin to one clear goal and minutes later an inspirational six pointer from Crowley saw scores tied with four minutes remaining. It was Port’s turn to show some mental strain as they mishandled the ball and showed signs of panic. Fremantle took a narrow two point lead into the final break after Pavlich and Farmer scored points in the closing minutes of the quarter.

There was no doubt that every Dockers’ fan had the mental toughness question on their mind as the whistle blew to start the final quarter. Port took the initiative immediately. After a fantastic play by Rodan, Motlop kicked a Goal of the Year contender to give Port the lead. Ibbotson snapped a brilliant goal off a marking pack and it was Fremantle in front. McPharlin had an opportunity to increase the lead but wasted it. An easy clearance by Port resulted in a downfield chance to Westoff. He nailed it and Port were ahead again. Fremantle began to make mistakes, getting caught holding the ball, missing tackles and becoming tentative in defense. Port’s supremacy was obvious when, with two players lying on the ground injured and effectively out of the game, Port moved the ball forward to Gray in the forward 50 and scored a goal. With seven minutes to go to full time, Port had a 16 point lead. Pavlich was awarded a free kick for an arm chop but hit the post, wasting a final chance for Fremantle to get back into contention. In contrast, Port took the ball out of defense and retained possession to give Westoff another opportunity on goal. He capitalised as did Motlop minutes later and Port ran out comfortable 28 point winners.

While Port Adelaide supporters rejoiced at the resurrection of their season, Fremantle Dockers’ fans wept tears of frustration at the thought of what could have been - indeed should have been - in season 2008. There can be no excuses for Fremantle. They had plenty of the ball and lots of opportunities but Port Adelaide were deserving winners. They showed more endeavor and fought hard to come from behind for the win. The Dockers were no match for Port’s persistence or toughness when it counted. Where Port were resolute and convincing, Fremantle were inconsistent and brittle. To rub salt into the wound, the Dockers earned a dubious honor. They are the first team in AFL history to be defeated on five separate occasions after leading games at three quarter time. This will no doubt fuel further debate on the reasons behind the Dockers’ inability to finish off games.

In Round 11 Port Adelaide (now in equal 10th place on the Ladder) will host Carlton at AAMI Stadium in Adelaide. Fremantle (equal bottom) will travel to the Gabba to meet the in form Brisbane Lions in front of their home crowd.

Scoreboard
Port Adelaide 2.1 8.3 10.5 16.7  (103)
Fremantle     5.1 5.7 9.13 10.15 (75)

Goals
Port Adelaide Motlop 5, Tredrea 3, Westoff 2,Roden 2, Lade, 
              Salopek, Pearce, Gray
Fremantle     Sandilands 2, Pavlich, Farmer, Black, Grover, 
              Thornton, Ibbotson, McPharlin, Crowley

Best
Port Adelaide Motlop, Rodan, Salopek, Pearce, Westoff, 
              K Cornes, C Cornes
Fremantle     Crowley, Sandilands, Palmer, Ibbotson, 
              McPharlin, Pavlich

News from around the AFL

Lisa Albergo — Tue, 13 May 2008 19:38:54 -0500

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

Fame Game Benefits Charities

This weekend's Hall Of Fame Tribute match benefited several charitable organizations with all players involved donating their $5000 match payments to three organizations. The AFLPA Hardship Fund will receive $100,000. The Past Player Hardship Fund was set up several years ago to assist past players with medical expenses and to date has distributed over $80,000. The Fund is run by the AFLPA Past Players Advisory Board, chaired by AFLPA Executive Committee Member Simon Madden.

The organization Ladder will also receive $100,000. Ladder is an initiative which targets youth homelessness and provides housing, employment, education and mentoring for homeless youth. The program is currently working to set up facilities in Melbourne and Adelaide and is hoping to go national. AFL players will also be involved, receiving training to help mentor those in the program.

RedLink will receive $50,000. Redlink is a non-profit organization which works to set up sports and recreation for the disadvantaged. They currently sponsor almost 30 teams in remote Victorian and the Northern Territory communities. RedLink is looking to expand services to central Australia.

Source: Jason Murnane, AFLPA Media Release

Carey To Court

Wayne Carey will appear in a Melbourne court later this month to face a number of charges stemming from his arrest in January after a party at his Port Melbourne apartment. He is facing six counts of assaulting police officers and resisting arrest.

The Miami court date is set for late July and Carey could face up to 15 years in jail. His attorney said Carey is maintaining his innocence. Both he and his lawyer have refused a plea deal of one year in jail. Should he fail to appear, he would be subject to immediate arrest if he enters the USA in the future.

Carey, 36, played 272 games for the Kangaroos and Adelaide Crows. He was forced to resign from the Kangaroos at the start of the 2002 season after his affair with vice-captain Anthony Stevens' wife was revealed. He remained on the Kangaroos' list for the season for salary cap and trade reasons, but did not play. He joined the Crows in 2003 but managed just 28 games in two injury-riddled seasons.

Source: Melbourne Age & author notes

Lloyd Costs Bombers $5000

Essendon has been fined $5000 for Matthew Lloyd's approach to the umpires during Essendon's match against Port Adelaide. Lloyd was instructed by Coach Matthew Knights to ask the umpires why several tackles by his team were not rewarded with free kicks.

AFL rules prohibit any player from approaching the umpires during breaks or when they are leaving or entering the ground.

Source: Herald Sun

Grand Final Terrorist Target?

A dozen men are currently on trial in Melbourne for allegedly planning terrorist attacks in Melbourne. One of the targets was to be the MCG during the 2005 Grand Final between West Coast and Sydney. The alleged leader of the planned attacks, Abdul Nacer Benbrika, told key witness Izzydeen Atik of the planned attacks.

According to Atik, the MCG attack was canceled after raids by Australian Security Intelligence resulted in funds being seized. Atik testified that Benbrika and his group also planned attacks during the 2006 AFL NAB Preseason Cup and Melbourne Grand Prix.

Source: Sydney Morning Herald

Tigers Membership Record

Richmond has broken their all-time club membership. As of early May, the club recorded 30,070 members. That figure betters the club's 2006 official tally of 30,044 members. The club still has 3500 members who have yet to renew.

While fans can continue to sign up as members throughout the season, the official AFL cut-off date for recording club memberships is June 30.

Source: Judith Donnelly, Club Media Release & author notes

Gehrig Battles Arthritis

Coach Ross Lyon revealed last week that full forward Fraser Gehrig has arthritis in his hands. According to Lyon, numerous broken fingers and dislocations are partly the cause. In warm weather, his hands are OK, but in the cold and wet weather of the football season, the arthritis is more bothersome. Although Gehrig can still catch the ball, he has trouble handling it at ground level.

Lyon described Gehrig's attitude regarding the arthritis as "stoic" and said Gehrig does not like to talk about his injuries and has played while hurt in the past. In 2007, he played half the season with a broken bone in his hand. Several years ago, he played with a planter fascia tear (foot injury) for several weeks.

Gehrig played 115 games with West Coast before being traded to the Saints in 2000.

NOTE: If the arthritis is only in his hands due to numerous injuries, it is probably osteoarthritis, which only affects joints which have been severely traumatized by injury. It does not spread to other joints in the body or become increasingly debilitating as is the case with rheumatoid arthritis - ed.

Source: The Australian

Power Surge Destroys Eagles

Scott Lockhart — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 04:23:45 -0500

Scott Lockhart reporting for AFANA from Subiaco Oval, Perth.

Port Adelaide has claimed their first victory for the 2008 season, dispensing of the Eagles by 24 points at Subiaco Oval on Sunday evening.

Despite starting the match underdogs at Subiaco Oval for the first time in many seasons, the Eagles started with intensity and run that has been missing over the last month and they were rewarded for this after Ben McKinley opened the scoring with a strong mark and goal. Yet the Eagles were unable to fully capitalize on their early opportunities with Port Adelaide slowly building momentum as their skills began to shine in a tough, tight and ugly contest.

Port’s new found form shone through as they kicked successive goals from Daniel Motlop and Adam Thomson, but were wasteful as they dominated the Inside 50’s for very little reward. as they continued to struggle to kick truly and were ineffective with their forward line disposal. A second goal to McKinley put the Eagles back in front of the scoreboard as they found themselves, somewhat undeservedly, leading by 2 points at the first change.

Port continued to test the new look Eagles side after the break, with Daniel Motlop kicking his second shortly into the term to hand the lead back to last years Grand Finalists. This lead was extended to beyond two goals when Thomson again showed his strong presence up forward to kick his second for the match. The Eagles, who are now without former stars Chris Judd and Ben Cousins, continue to appear to be a shadow of their former selves with weak tackles, and a lack of pressure and commitment from a number of players epitomizing their year this far and throughout this second term.

A five goal haul in the space of ten minutes, including two stunning kicks from Shaun Burgoyne, had Port Adelaide leading by what appeared to be an insurmountable six goals, shortly before the half time break. Veteran Port forward Warren Tredrea began to assert himself for the Power, kicking two quick goals, as the Eagles defense continued to be undermanned and outclassed by their much larger opponents. Port Adelaide looking clear winners at Half time, leading by 37 points.

Any hopes of an Eagles revival appeared to be exterminated when Motlop and Westhoff goaled in quick succession shortly after the main break to extend the visiting sides lead to 49 points in what continued to be an extremely impressive performance. In a much needed spark to the match, West Coast lifted their intensity and began to take the contest up to Port Adelaide. Goals to Chad Jones, Lynch and Wirrapanda had the lead to within five goals half way through the third term, but Port Adelaide were able to maintain their comfortable lead and wrestle back the momentum each time the Eagles seemed to be pressing forward. Despite their improved performance, the Eagles found themselves further behind after late goals to Ebert and Cassisi as Port surged to a seven goal lead with a term to play.

Brett Ebert was the star of the final quarter as his early three consecutive goals stretched the lead out to 62 points as Port Adelaide showed no mercy to their undermanned and underperforming opponents. The Power simply too good as they dominated possession, out-marked and outplayed West Coast in a performance that will send warnings to the rest of the competition. Late goals to Selwood, Kerr, McKinley and Lynch added respectibility to the scoreboard but were nothing but consolations in a sobering performance for the once mighty Eagles.

Next week West Coast travel to Melbourne for a clash with the Western Bulldogs, while the Power return to Adelaide for a crucial Saturday night clash with St. KIlda at AAMI Stadium.

Final Score:
WCE:  3.3  5.4   9.5  16.8  (104)
Port: 2.7 10.11 15.11 19.14 (128)
Best
WCE: McKinley Wirrapanda, Cox
Port: Thomson, Rodan, S Burgoyne, Motlop
Goals
WCE: McKinley 5, Wirrapanda Selwood Lynch 2, Jones Cox Spangher Armstrong 1.
Port: Motlop Ebert 4, S Burgoyne 3, Tredrea Thomson 2, Lade Westhoff Cassisi Rodan 1.
Injuries: Thomson (shoulder)
Reports: Nil
Umpires: Ryan, Wenn, Nicholls
Crowd: 38,302