AFL won't be international sport

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou says the code has no plans to go international. Source: Herald Sun

ANDREW Demetriou admits the AFL has no pretensions of becoming an international sport despite the initial success of their New Zealand venture.

The league's chief executive said St Kilda's three-year, five-game deal to host games in Wellington, which started with their Anzac Day clash against Sydney, was a sign of things to come on the overseas front.

But the aim is to please clubs' multi-national sponsors and raise the value of the AFL's international television rights, not set the scene for a more substantial form of global expansion.

"We are unashamedly an indigenous code," Demetriou told an American Chamber of Commerce function in Melbourne on Thursday.

"We don't purport to be anything else.

"We don't expect to grow internationally, it's not what we are, we're a bit like the NFL.

"But it is important when you're in a globalised world when most of our clubs, if not all of our clubs and ourselves, are sponsored by international sponsors ... you need to be thinking about playing games abroad."

Demetriou pointed to a 2008 pre-season game between Adelaide and Collingwood in Dubai, which he said was largely driven by the business interests of the clubs' respective sponsors Toyota and Emirates.

Magpies president Eddie McGuire has suggested a return to the United Arab Emirates to play for premiership points, although he indicated it would be dependent on scrapping the pre-season competition and extending the regular season.

"Then it opens up the possibility of playing a full-blooded game for points," McGuire told Abu Dhabi's The National newspaper recently.

Overseas games also feed into the AFL's recruiting aims - with talent identification programs in place in the United States and New Zealand - and potential revenue growth.

"Each year our international broadcast rights go up," Demetriou said.

"They may go up only marginally every year but at a point in time they may go up significantly."

The Saints' deal includes two home games in Wellington in each of the next two seasons, with hopes it will become a long-term tradition.

Demetriou said the Anzac Day game succeeded on every measure, with a crowd of 22,546, including at least 4500 travelling Australians, a number he said could have doubled had there been more flights available.

Overseas-born AFL players were also important to reflect Australian society, with the game "infinitely better" for the recent debut of North Melbourne's Sudanese-born big man Majak Daw.

"For our game to be strong it has to pass the mirror test. The people sitting on the other side of the fence have to see the same people on the field," Demetriou said.

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Malceski re-signs with Sydney

Catch me if you can: Sydney's Nick Malceski runs up the field after kicking the winning goal in the Grand Final. He's signed a new contract a the Swans. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

REBOUNDING defender Nick Malceski has resisted the lure of free agency to sign a one-year contract extension with Sydney.

Malceski was set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the current season, but opted to re-sign with the reigning premiers until the end of 2014.

The 28-year-old, who kicked the goal that sealed Sydney's grand final win last year, has been one of the Swans' best in the opening six rounds of 2013.

Malceski's recommitment means the club will be unaffected by free agency for a second year in a row.

Stalwart Jude Bolton, who was weighing up retirement last year after winning his second premiership with Sydney, is the only Swan remaining on the league's free agency list.

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Dons drug had 'euphoric' effects

Former Essendon sports scientist Stephen Dank listed banned drugs on the consent forms given to Essendon players. Picture: James Croucher. Source: The Daily Telegraph

Macca cartoon. David McArthur cartoon. WINDY HILL. (David Evans. Essendon. Letters. Consent form. Reid letter. Ziggy report.)

THE controversial drug prescriped to Essendon players last season has "euphoric" effects but doesn't help weight loss, according to a researcher who conducted clinical trials.

Club documents obtained by the Herald Sun show some Essendon players were prescribed the anti-obesity drug AOD-9604 last season.

But Essendon last night insisted the consent forms did not prove any of its players used the substance, which is banned for use by athletes.

The forms signed by Bombers players and officials reveal key details of the supplements program at Windy Hill in 2012.

They show some players were recommended weekly injections of AOD-9604.

Injection schedules for Thymosin are also documented. Some types of Thymosin are banned by doping authorities.

The forms state that "all components of the intervention are in compliance with current WADA anti-doping policy and guidelines''.

An Essendon spokesman said last night: "It is a matter for ASADA to determine these matters.''

"The club certainly does not accept that the signing of the consent forms means that the supplements were administered, and this kind of speculation is just unnecessarily harmful to the players.''

Today, Adelaide University Chair of Medicine Professor Gary Wittert has revealed the results of a series of clinical trials of AOD-9604 in 2007.

Wittert led a team which conducted three human trials into AOD-9604 including a final three-month test.

"We designed a six-month study properly powered to look at the outcome of 'Would it be a drug suitable for weight loss?' and the outcome from that was a definitive no," Wittert told Adelaide news website INDAILY.

Pic gallery: Bomber beach boys

Wittert said after the trial he had "assumed the company had stopped developing the drug".

"Now it's been in some cream and just about every journalist has called it an anti-obesity drug, which it ain't – it's a failed anti-obesity drug at best."

Wittert said there was no clinical evidence that it helped with tissue repair or had any other benefit in people.

"However, when we gave it intravenously, we noticed that 60 per cent of people felt a euphoric effect, so (the company) and I patented it as an anti-depressant."

Mark Robinson: Confusion continues at Essendon

Wittert told INDAILY he didn't know why a football club would prescribe an unproven drug.

During the intravenous trial no person had more than three doses which were given at least a week apart.

The dosages and number of injections for individual Essendon players are detailed in their consent forms. Some players were recommended one injection a week for the whole 2012 season.

Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority investigators have begun grilling Essendon players on their participation in and knowledge of the club's supplements program.

Bombers chairman David Evans said this week his club had "never conceded that our players have been given banned substances in 2012''.

He said the club was becoming increasingly confident its players would escape penalties.

The consent forms appear to remove any doubt that at least one substance - AOD-9604 - prescribed to some players did fall outside anti-doping rules.

If issued with an infraction notice by ASADA, it will be up to lawyers for the players and the club to argue why this was not a breach.

In the wake of the report into the Essendon supplement scandal, James Hird speaks on the Bombers' preparation for its clash with Geelong.

It is known some Essendon players refused to be injected as part of the supplements program.

The signature of Dank appears on all the documents as well as that of a witness and the player the program was devised for.

The World Anti-Doping Agency has stated that AOD-9604, which is not approved for human use, is banned.

Asked about the status of Thymosin, an ASADA spokesman said last week: "The status of Thymosin in sport is dependent on the type of Thymosin ... for example, Thymosin Beta 4 has been prohibited under S2 of the WADA Prohibited List since at least 2011.''

Essendon has not said which type of Thymosin its players were recommended by Dank.

Melbourne biochemist Shane Charter has claimed Dank ordered the banned Thymosin Beta 4 from him last year.

Bombers re-sign 'champion' Heppell

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How Thomas turned it around

Kangaroo Lindsay Thomas has been on fire this year. Source: Herald Sun

HE has gone from being the goalsneak who struggled to hit the side of a barn to the sharpshooter leading the Coleman Medal.

And North Melbourne small forward Lindsay Thomas says the reason is nothing to do with different set-shot routines or overhauled kicking techniques.

It is all about what goes on between the ears.

"It's hard to believe, but I didn't change anything, really,'' Thomas said.

"The funny thing is I don't think I changed any part of my routine ... it was just about finding that inner belief.

"The first thing I had to do was actually acknowledge that I needed to do something about my kicking for goal. So I spoke to Tara (Kavanagh), who's the club psychologist and went through the challenges that I was facing.

"The way I saw it was that my football couldn't get any lower than it was, so the only way forward was to progress upwards."

That nadir came midway through 2011 when Thomas "got to the point where you didn't want the footy in your hands''.

He had kicked 17.29, 7.15 of them from set shots, and had lost confidence to such an extent that he was missing shots from the top of the goalsquare.

"It was pretty mentally draining,'' he said.

His coach Brad Scott said at the time: "We're well aware it's a (mental issue). He's a very good kick - very good kicks don't miss (shots like) that.''

Privately Scott approached Thomas and began the process of rebuilding a scarred psyche.

"I'm a confidence player,'' Thomas said, "and all that Brad said was, `Look, go back to the VFL and try to find that enjoyment in your footy'.

"So I went back for, I think, three weeks and kicked a few goals and then came back for the last three games of the year, and the turnaround started there.

"It had to. I just felt that I was letting my teammates down.''

With the help of Kavanagh, forwards coach Brett Allison and teammates Brent Harvey and Daniel Wells, Thomas realised that part of the problem was that he was putting so much pressure on himself not to miss.

He also had so many thoughts going through his mind while lining up that he wasn't concentrating on kicking the ball.

The key was to stay relaxed and focused rather than to change his run up or ball drop.

"I've got the utmost respect for Brad Scott,'' the 25-year-old said.

"He could have just dumped me and left me there to sort myself out, but he went back and played me and showed a lot of faith in me.

"Having a coach like that in my corner, well, it just meant that I love playing for him and love being part of his team.''

Thomas also devoted the next 18 months to "working my backside off on getting fitter and stronger.''

Becoming more powerful also meant that he was better at staying on his feet, helping to address another perceived flaw in his game: staging for free kicks.

Thomas said the coach told him at the end of 2011 that he was "a more damaging player when you keep your feet''.

"A few years ago he did talk to me about it, but not recently,'' Thomas said.

"If he said I needed to pull back, then I would. He's the only person I really need to listen to. Him and the other coaches and my teammates. But Brad has told me that he's loving the way I'm playing my footy at the minute.''

From the opening six games of this season Thomas has kicked 23.8 - a conversion rate of 74 per cent - and he heads the league's goalkicking table.

If he is still there after Round 23 he will be the first small forward to win the Coleman Medal since Hawthorn's Leigh Matthews in 1975 with 67 goals.

But Thomas has learned not to waste his time over-thinking.

Rather, he trains his mind to what is in front of him, in this case the game against the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium tomorrow.

"It's always good to snag a few early in the season,'' Thomas chuckled.

"It's good for the confidence.''

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Hutchings wins call-up

CALL-UP: Mark Hutchings will make his AFL debut this weekend. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: PerthNow

MARK Hutchings will become West Coast's second debutant this season after being named to take on Brisbane on Saturday.

The 21-year-old midfielder received his chance after the Eagles lost midfield duo Daniel Kerr and Chris Masten, while impressive ruckman Callum Sinclair was also squeezed out.

Matt Rosa will play his first game for the season after proving he had overcome a quad injury through a WAFL stint, while Brad Sheppard also returns.

Masten's streak of 36 consecutive games will end after the wingman was left out due to a foot complaint, while Kerr (knee) will miss his third game of the year.

Masten has been the Eagles' leading ballwinner this season, averaging 28 disposals per game to sit among the league's top ten.

Hutchings has enjoyed a fine spell for WAFL club West Perth so far this season, including a season-high 33 touches in last weekend's win over East Fremantle.

The midfielder was taken at No.60 in last year's draft after a stint on St Kilda's rookie list in 2010.

Falcons president Brett Raponi took to Twitter to express his delight at Hutchings' call-up, writing "Hutchy will kill them in the clearances, he worked hard for this".

As expected, the Lions will welcome back champion ballwinner Simon Black, as well as Andrew Raines and Jordan Lisle.

Aaron Cornelius, Billy Longer and WA product Marco Paparone have all been dropped.

Meanwhile, Fremantle has made just the one change to the team that beat Gold Coast last week ahead of Saturday night's home clash with Collingwood.

Wingman Stephen Hill returns to the side after a one-week absence and replaces Cam Sutcliffe.

The Pies welcome back skipper Nick Maxwell and have also included Caolan Mooney. Tyson Goldsack (hip) and Jarrod Witts (omitted) are out.

Follow Chris Robinson on Twitter: @CJKRobinson
 

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Dons hope WADA doubt will help

The Bombers remain confident in their defence.

Macca cartoon. David McArthur cartoon. WINDY HILL. (David Evans. Essendon. Letters. Consent form. Reid letter. Ziggy report.)

A CONTRIBUTOR to the Switkowski report into Essendon's irregular sports medicine practices says the club believes there are "grey areas" surrounding the World Anti-Doping Agency's banning of supplements allegedly used by players.

Sports medico Andrew Garnham worked with former Telstra boss Ziggy Switkowski on the report released on Monday.

He confirmed the Herald Sun's report, which said the club was considering a defence based on proving AOD-9604 was not illegal when players were prescribed substances by Dons staffer Stephen Dank.

And, while some experts have said six-month bans are certain for some players (the maximum ban for a first offence is two years), he too is confident they can be spared suspensions.

"As the information has become clearer (chairman) David (Evans) and I have been in close communication and he has had information come to him from a variety of other sources," Garnham said.

"So I think what David is putting forward (about no illegality) we would endorse."

Essendon has maintained players did not take banned substances, but has not clarified if players did not take AOD-9604 or the club does not accept it is banned.

Garnham worked as a consultant with pharmacology expert Ross McKinnon, with the pair trying to find out what was in the supplements used at Essendon.

There is a belief Essendon has correspondence or advice from the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority in relation to the substances, which has increased their confidence.

Dons to claim drug was legal

"Obviously there is more information that may yet come from other sources which you have detailed in the (Herald Sun)," Garnham said.

"That potentially raises questions. I think there continue to be grey areas around these things, so it's trying to clarify those grey areas. That is the objective for all the parties involved.

"There are different drugs being developed all the time. Some of those drugs become useful in a clinical context.

"Pharmaceutical companies will say there are many drugs which appear to have potential but never go on beyond an early development phase, so this means the whole process of interpreting data and how things can be categorised under the WADA list is a difficult list and subject to interpretation."

The club's internal report recommended an array of changes about the way the club tackled supplement programs, which Garnham said the club had to take seriously.

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AFL nets Foxtel chief

Peter Campbell is heading to AFL Media. Picture: Norm Oorloff

THE AFL's dream of broadcasting its own matches has moved closer to reality with the hiring of a key Foxtel executive to head its media division.

Foxtel's Victorian general manager and head sport executive, Peter Campbell, was lured to run AFL Media.

Former AFL and A-League administrator Ben Buckley is his replacement at the pay-TV network.

The league has three more years to run on its $1.258 billion TV rights deal, but is already plotting for another significant increase.

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou said last year the league could broadcast "a game or two" from 2016 considering rapidly changing technologies.

The league says AFL Media is a success, although money saved by cost-cutting went into underwriting the media arm's losses this year.

While Campbell's expertise would be perfect in helping the AFL leverage more money, AFL deputy chief executive Gillon McLachlan said last night that was not his brief.

"He has been brought in to help deliver on AFL Media's agenda and he brings television and broadcast experience with an operational bent, and that's why we think he is a great hire," he said.

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Team effort needed to stop Cloke

Collingwood forward Travis Cloke can expect to confront three different Fremantle defenders on Saturday night. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD forward Travis Cloke can expect to confront three different Fremantle defenders on Saturday night.

Luke McPharlin is expected to be Cloke's primary opponent, but the All-Australian backman is also tipping Zac Dawson and Michael Johnson to line up alongside the in-form Magpies forward at some stage during the match.

"It will most likely be myself if he's playing a bit deeper, but if he's playing up the ground we do have structures in place where Michael Johnson might take him," McPharlin said.

"These days in the modern game you can end up playing on two or three different opponents throughout the night so you need to get your head around a few different players.

"You always look forward to the big challenges and myself, Zac Dawson and Michael Johnson - whoever is on him at whatever point in time - will certainly relish the opportunity to play against one of the best forwards in the competition."

Cloke has kicked 22 goals this season - one behind Coleman Medal leader Lindsay Thomas from North Melbourne.

The 2010 Collingwood premiership player booted three telling goals in the final quarter of last Friday's game against St Kilda to seal victory for the Magpies.

McPharlin, who is captaining the Dockers in injured skipper Matthew Pavlich's absence, said the club would review tapes of Cloke's recent performances in the coming days.

"Obviously his contested mark is his great strength and he's been kicking some goals too," McPharlin said.

"As we know, he's been a formidable forward for a couple of years now so that's a big challenge and something we're going to have to stop.

"With a player like that, it's very much a team approach and the pressure up the field needs to be right so he doesn't get the delivery he would like."

Fremantle midfielder Stephen Hill remains on track to play against Collingwood after missing last Saturday's win over Gold Coast with a quadriceps injury.

Meanwhile, McPharlin said he had no issues with the pushing rule despite the recent player and coach backlash following Scott Thompson's unpaid mark last weekend.

"It's really just about standing your ground and trying to fight for your position," he said.

"It is challenging, but like anything...with the umpiring of it, people make mistakes at different times.

"I feel I've got a pretty good grasp and understanding of it."

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Special footy for Indigenous Round

The Indigenous Sherrin Ball that will be used.

THE AFL will unveil a specially-designed indigenous ball as part of its Dream Time celebrations.

It is believed the league wants to use the new-look Sherrin in games throughout Indigenous Round (Round 9, May 24-26), pending a final approval.

The leather ball is covered in coloured symbols which commonly feature in traditional indigenous paintings.

SEE THE FOOTY: Have a look at the specially-designed Sherrin above

While the AFL would not comment yesterday, the Herald Sun has obtained the first photos of the indigenous ball.

It is hoped the ball will help celebrate the contribution indigenous players have made to Australian rules.

"The circular rings and dots cluster in yellow, red, blue and green showcasing the continuous cycle of prominent and emerging players, now regarded as modern day warriors," the ball's promotional material says.

The league plans to release the newly-designed Sherrin in a fortnight to coincide with the launch of Indigenous Round between May 24-26.

It is expected the indigenous ball will also go on public sale through Sherrin.

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Trouble with Harry

Cat Harry Taylor marks in front of Bulldog Jordan Roughead. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

RECRUITER Stephen Wells would surely have that long-promised statue of himself erected outside Simonds Stadium were it not for the list management headaches he creates.

The latest issue for Geelong is unsigned defender Harry Taylor who, in the absence of Matthew Scarlett, has been doing a passable impression of the future Hall of Famer.

The West Australian, plucked by Wells from the WAFL, is in white-hot form, which has the Cats desperate to re-sign him.

Despite the pull of home and two young children, Taylor is loyal, but it would be negligent for him to sign a new contract when his price is skyrocketing by the week.

Geelong will have to wait, aware that in six games Taylor has gone from a valuable key position defender to the hottest swingman in the game.

Harry Taylor of the Cats celebrates after kicking a goal during the round five AFL match against Western Bulldogs and the Geelong Cats at Etihad Stadium. Picture: Scott Barbour Source: Getty Images

Taylor has conceded three goals and kicked 9.5 himself this season, despite spending only 21 per cent of his time in attack.

He has kept the likes of Adam Goodes, Drew Petrie, Jarryd Roughead and David Hale goalless and then, when stationed forward against the Western Bulldogs, kicked 5.2 on Jordan Roughead.

The AFL season guide describes Taylor as a "safe, reliable" defender.

He is more than that. He is a star. And the suitors are queuing up.

Imagine what a club such as St Kilda, Fremantle or West Coast would offer for a consistent finals performer who can play as a key defender or full-forward.

Especially one who is just 26, is second in intercept marks, and has proved his durability with 118 of a possible 129 games since being taken with pick 17 from East Fremantle in 2007.

How good a judge is Wells? He turned a rookie in Matthew Egan into an All-Australian defender, watched him break down in late 2007 and then selected a replacement in Taylor, who hasn't missed a beat.

Estimating contract figures at Geelong is problematic given its team-first ethos, but it's safe to say Taylor would have accepted a modest reward when he signed his last contract, considering the Cats' array of talent.

Would Geelong need to pay him north of $500,000 a year?

Geelong's Harry Taylor took Crows full-forward out of the match at Simonds Stadium. Picture: Scott Barbour. Source: Getty Images

Would a club with an open cheque-book believe he was worth $700,000 a year, especially when key defenders are so hard to secure, as St Kilda found out with Mitch Brown in the trade period?

They might sound crazy numbers, but Melbourne threw huge money at Chris Dawes and Mitch Clark.

Retirement decisions that would clear salary-cap space at Geelong are a long way off, but Corey Enright and Paul Chapman are playing well enough to continue next year, with 31-year-old Joel Corey probably 50-50 to go on.

The mail is that Taylor will make Geelong increase its offer and then stay.

But Geelong has lost players in Gary Ablett and Shane Mumford through no other reason than its inability to pay them market rates, given the quality of its list.

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Sorry Kosi says he's not done yet

The future of St Kilda's Justin Koschitzke is in serious doubt after a tumultuous night against Collingwood.

Justin Koschitzke looks back after crunching Elliott. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

AN apologetic Justin Koschitzke has spoken out in a bid to preserve his reputation as a ball player.

The St Kilda big man said today he doesn't want to be remembered for the clash that resulted in a two-game suspension.

The 30-year-old told the Saints website he phoned Collingwood victim Jamie Elliott on Saturday to say sorry for the strike that he said was an accident.

"I know I've done the wrong thing, but we accept that and we move on from here,'' Koschitzke said.

"Obviously I've done the wrong thing and I wanted to let people know I'm remorseful for that and I don't want to be recognised or remembered as someone who is going to do those things off the play. It's not what were about as a club and certainly not what I'm about.''

Koschitzke contacted Elliott on Saturday to check on his wellbeing.

"It was accidental and I was just trying to check Jamie off the ball and, obviously, the clumsiness made it look a bit dirtier than what the intention was about,'' he said.

"I rang Jamie the next day, I was concerned about him and made sure he's OK. I made sure he understood I didn't mean anything harmful by it and he understood that. We move on now.

"I think he was quite surprised I called him. He knew I didn't mean anything dirty by it and that I was just checking him off the ball and blocking his run. He knew I didn't mean to get him high so it was good to put that at ease.''

The 197-game ruckman-forward vowed to work as hard as possible to force his way back into the senior team.

"I've got to turn it into a positive now, I've got two weeks to go and train and let my actions do the talking and really help the young kids,'' he said.

"I'm by no means done as a lot of people out there are jumping to some conclusions and saying. I've still got the year to go, were still very young in the year and other people are going to get their chance. But I'll be working pretty hard to get back out there and put the red, white and black on again and finish the year on a positive note.

"The body feels good. I've been around a while now and if I'm not contributing on the ground it has been a really good learning experience being able to play in the VFL and almost coach some of the kids in the pressures and physical demands of playing AFL footy.

"It's been really rewarding to see that coming through. That's got to be my role in the next couple of weeks to make sure the club goes forward and get myself in the best position to be selected again after the suspensions finished.''

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Lions set for Black boost

Veteran Brisbane Lions midfielder Simon Black is close to returning. Picture: Peter Wallis. Source: The Courier-Mail

BRISBANE Lions is set to be boosted by the probable return of champion Simon Black this week.

Black completed a full reserves game at the weekend after missing the first six matches with a knee injury.

Jack Redden picked up the burden with 23 possessions and seven tackles in a badly beaten midfield missing the injured Daniel Rich and Claye Beams, and is a likely benefactor from Black's return.

"A quality player like Blacky will be a massive lift for us boys. We all know what he is capable of and all the boys will get a lift out of it," Redden said.

An inability to win the contested ball is Brisbane's biggest concern heading into the weekend after being smashed in that area against Sydney.

"At the start we struggled to get our hands on the ball... but we started matching them in contested ball and I think we turned the game around after that," he said.

Despite their rocky start, the Lions have every reason to be confident against a patchy West Coast side that have just two wins to their name and only one Gabba victory since 2008.

"They're starting to find some form again and it is going to be a tough game but hopefully we match up pretty well against them and get the four points," he said.

Patrick Karnezis, Jordan Lisle and Sam Docherty are in line for recalls against the Eagles after strong reserves matches last Sunday.

Redden put a smile on faces at the Mater Children's Hospital today.
 

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Live chat: Adelaide's Josh Jenkins

JOSH Jenkins is one game into his life as an Adelaide forward without star Taylor Walker by his side.

With Walker out with a season-ending knee injury, much of the attacking burden has been left on Jenkins' shoulders.

How will he handle the pressure? And can he stand up to spear the Crows into the finals against the odds?

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Dawes to open account for Dees

Chris Dawes is ready to play. Picture: Derrick Den Hollander Source: Herald Sun

FORMER Magpie Chris Dawes will make his long-awaited debut for Melbourne in the club's must-win clash against Gold Coast on Sunday.

After two encouraging hit-outs in the VFL, Dawes is all but certain to add some much-needed firepower and leadership to the Dees' forward-line at the MCG.

Dawes, one of the club's prized end-of-season recruits, has missed the first six rounds with a recurring hamstring problem but showed positive signs kicking four goals for Casey in the VFL on Saturday.

The Barometer: Medical updates from every club

The Dees were forced to use a makeshift forward set-up against Carlton on Sunday without big men Mitch Clark (foot), Mark Jamar (groin) and playmaker Jack Watts (hamstring).

Jamar and No.1 draft pick Watts will be sidelined for up to two matches, while Clark faces two months out after surgery on his foot.

Dawes, 24, will provide a strong marking target against a weakened Giants backline if he can complete tomorrow morning's training without setback.

Melbourne football manager Josh Mahoney said the 193cm spearhead was set to make a welcome return.

"He's played two games in the VFL and in the second game, he moved well, he kicked some goals and we expect him to play," Mahoney said.

Melbourne traded picks No.20 (Tim Broomhead) and No.47 (Mitch Wilkins) to Collingwood for the 2010 premiership forward at the end of last year.

Dawes has played only one NAB Cup game for Melbourne because of hamstring and calf troubles.

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Pie all at sea in heavy traffic

Collingwood recruit Ben Kennedy reveals he had to make a dash to Etihad Stadium for his first game after getting stuck in traffic.

Ben Kennedy made a frantic dash to Etihad Stadium. Photo: Michael Dodge/Getty Images

COLLINGWOOD'S Ben Kennedy feared he might be withdrawn from his first AFL game after a traffic snarl forced him to run the last two kilometres to Etihad Stadium on Friday.

The 19-year-old arrived in the dressing rooms breathless and in a panic after ditching his friend's car and sprinting to the ground.

VIDEO: Watch how Ben Kennedy made it to Etihad Stadium in the player above

He arrived only a few minutes before the team meeting ahead of the St Kilda clash - fearful he might be withdrawn for being late.

"I was freaking out on my way (to the ground)," Kennedy said. "I was with a mate. He had to pull over. I had to get out and run probably two kilometres to get to the game.

"Being from Adelaide, I misinterpreted the traffic, as I always do in Melbourne.

"It was a different sort of preparation, but at least I warmed up before everyone else."

Buckley was sympathetic after seeing an ashen-faced Kennedy arrive in the rooms 20 minutes after he was expected to be there.

The coach told Fox Sports' The Club, which will air tonight: "He rocked up and he looked like he was in the process of, or had had a panic attack.

"I found out later that he jumped out of his car and ran 2km to get to the oval.

"He was that worried about getting into trouble and missing his position.

"I had to just go across and put an arm around him and say, 'Just relax and try to enjoy yourself'."

Despite the ordeal, Kennedy ended up impressing with eight disposals as the substitute after being introduced to the game in the third term.

* COLLINGWOOD forward Alex Fasolo has failed to have a one-match suspension overturned at the VFL Tribunal tonight.

Fasolo pleaded guilty to a rough conduct charge and his defence sought a reprimand given the Magpie's clean record in 60 games at AFL and VFL level.

And a fixture anomaly means he's effectively hit with a two-games penalty in the AFL.

A bye in the VFL this weekend for a state game means he must sit out the Collingwood's reserves team's round 7 game on Saturday week.

It means he won't be eligible for the senior team until the Friday night game against Sydney in Round 9.

Fasolo was charged with rough conduct against Williamstown's Charlie Nastasi during the Magpies' six-points loss last weekend.

- with Bruce Matthews
 

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First of two knee ops for Menzel

Daniel Menzel will undergo knee surgery twice. Picture: Chris Scott Source: Herald Sun

GEELONG player Daniel Menzel's journey back from a fourth serious knee injury starts today, when he has surgery for the first of a two-part procedure to save his career.

Menzel, who snapped his LARS graft in the VFL last month, will have surgery today to stabilise his left knee.

He will return in about three months to have reconstructive surgery using a patella tendon graft.

The Barometer: Medical updates for every club

The two-part procedure is uncommon, but will give Menzel the best chance of a successful recovery.

Geelong has not set a time frame on his return.

It will be Menzel's fourth reconstruction in two years.

The theory behind the procedure is that a stabilised knee will take some of the load off the new graft.

Menzel will not be required to do any major rehab between operations.

Despite being devastated by his latest setback, Menzel is said to be mentally strong.

His left knee gave way in the VFL on April 20 when he changed direction. It was his second match back after LARS surgery.

Geelong has vowed to support the 21-year-old forward.

Menzel said last month he had no choice but to prepare himself for more rehabilitation. "That's all I can do, I guess. That's what you love doing, playing footy," he said.

Coach Chris Scott said last week: "His approach is quite pragmatic. It's, 'Well, now I've got to go through it again and do everything I can to get back to playing footy, I'm 21, I've got time on my side'."

"There's no anatomical abnormalities in his knee that's leading to these issues, he's just had a series of very unlucky events and this reconstruction should be treated in isolation and then after that rehab's done he'll be back and hopefully have a long period of good footy in front of him."

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'We don't want a drugs arms race'

Essendon chairman David Evans says the buck stops with him, for the failings which led to the supplements saga at the Bombers.

Essendon chairman David Evans speaks to the media. Picture: Jake Nowakowski Source: Herald Sun

James Hird and the Essendon Bombers are today expected to receive the key findings from the investigation into the club's alleged illegal practices. Source: Getty Images

ESSENDON chairman David Evans has apologised for a breakdown of controls that allowed an "arms race" in experimental drugs at the club.

The club today released the findings and recommendations of former Telstra boss Ziggy Switkowski's internal review into the club's governance throughout the 2012 season.

The report slammed:

* The rapid diversification into exotic supplements;

* Sharp increase in frequency of injections;

* The shift to treatment offsite in alternative medicine clinics;

* Emergence of unfamiliar suppliers; and,

* Marginalisation of traditional medical staff.

The reports says that combined, these issues created "a disturbing picture of a pharmacologically experimental environment never adequately controlled or challenged or documented within the club".

Evans said the club would now fiercely pursue a "zero tolerance" policy towards the use of supplements.

REPLAY THE BOMBERS' PRESS CONFERENCE BELOW AND CHECK BACK FOR UPDATES ALL DAY

The review did not delve into "the nature of supplements administered by EFC during this period'', but Evans said the club is becoming "more and more confident about ... the fact that there was nothing banned that was given to our players''.

"I want to apologise to our players and their families, to our members and supporters, to the AFL community, about what has happened at Essendon," Evans said.

"I want people to focus on Dr Ziggy Switkowski's first recommendation and that is that the pioneering work of supplements should be left to the Australian sports commission.

"An arms race for the most sophisticated molecules must be prohibited.

"I am deeply sorry this has happned on my watch ... I will fight to ensure there is zero tolerance to risky procedures at our club."

Full text of the Essendon report

Former sport scientist Stephen Dank and high performance manager Dean Robinson - currently stood down - were not interviewed by Dr Switkowski, but former football manager Paul Hamilton was.

Striking "at the heart'' of the report, Evans said, was the fact a letter written by club doctor Bruce Reid detailing concerns about the Bombers new supplement program under Dank and Robinson never made its way to the board, as it was intended.

Evans said "no accountabilities'' would be made until after the AFL and Australian Sports Anti Doping Authority into the supplement program is completed.

That investigation is set to take another turn this week when players begin their interviews with ASADA.

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But Evans would not guarantee the long-term safety of coach James Hird, chief executive Ian Robson and all others at the club.

"I'm not guaranteeing anything,'' Evans said.

"The club has been through a tumultuous time and there's some change that needs to occur.

"But at the moment we stand by our people at the club at the moment, we support our people, we're holding together well in what has been a very difficult time, but we've got some decisions to make and obviously the first lot of decisions that we have to make are around these recommendations which no doubt the board will adopt and execute.''

Evans was deeply apologetic for letting such a scandal develop on his watch.

"The one thing I will say about my position is that the buck does stop with me,'' he said.

"I am chairman of the board, this has happened under my watch, I was elected for a three-year term at the AGM last year and I will bring forward my re-election, I will go to an election at the earliest possible time which will be November of this year.''

Who's who: The key players in Essendon saga

Evans confirmed publicly for the first time that Reid wrote a letter intended for the club's board that never got there.

"Bruce did write a letter and one of the confusing things here is we're confused as to where that letter went,'' he said.

"Clearly that letter didn't go to who it should have and that, again, is to the core of this report that escalation of issues when they arise should go up the chain.

"It's clear in this case that that didn't happen and that's something that we'll have to deal with.''

Evans revealed the club had dobbed itself into Medicare after external doctors placed a claim for blood tests on players.

Coach James Hird said this morning players were focused on this weekend's game and said he did not know what to expect.

"I am not sure, we will have to wait and see. It (the report) is due in the next few hours and we will wait and see then," he told reporters at Windy Hill.

Essendon coach James Hird watches his players at training. Picture: Jake Nowakowski Source: Herald Sun

Dr Switkowski wouldn't comment yesterday on what percentage of the report would be revealed, nor what it would recommend.

But club great Tim Watson, the father of club captain Jobe, said no Bombers official would be told to resign.

"I don't think there's going to be recommendations for anyone to be sacked. I don't think there's going to be blood on the floor tomorrow post this meeting, if that's in fact when it takes place," Watson told Channel 7.

"I think this is about the governance, so what they're looking to do is make sure that any of the errors of judgment along the way in terms of their supplement program won't be made again."

The review of the club's governance, processes and supervision followed revelations the Bombers were embroiled in an Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority investigation into their supplements program run by sports scientist Stephen Dank.

Essendon players train at Windy Hill today. Picture: Jake Nowakowski Source: Herald Sun

The release of its findings comes as Dank continued to insist Essendon had nothing to fear.

Dank told Sydney-based media at the weekend that his correspondence with the World Anti-Doping Agency and ASADA proved he could use anti-obesity drug AOD-9604 on players because it did not contravene category S2, which lists specific substances.

But Dank was not drawn on the fact AOD-9604 was prohibited under category S0, which states substances not approved for human use are prohibited.

ASADA is this week expected to start interviewing Essendon players.

- with Matt Windley, staff writers

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Hird's tough call on Gumby

Scott Gumbleton is in fine form, but could still be dropped.

ESSENDON forward Scott Gumbleton could face the axe for Friday's clash with Geelong despite being on the hottest streak of his seven-year career.

The Bombers must find six players to make way for their returning stars.

The Barometer: Medical updates for every club

Coach James Hird has already forecast the return of Michael Hurley (ankle), Dustin Fletcher (groin), Paddy Ryder (suspension), Jake Carlisle (foot) and Jason Winderlich and Dyson Heppell (both rested).

The club has not yet ruled out Brent Stanton after he copped a heavy knock to his groin against Greater Western Sydney on Saturday.

Stanton had scans after the game that are believed to have ruled out muscle damage, but he will have to train well today to be considered for the Etihad Stadium clash.

Gumbleton, 24, has kicked 9.3 in three games but, with first-choice forwards in Hurley, Ryder and Stewart Crameri all fit, it may be hard to squeeze him in.

David Hille and Tayte Pears seem likely exclusions for Ryder and Fletcher respectively, while Nick Kommer, Leroy Jetta and Jackson Merrett would be among the contenders to make way.

Robbo: Guinea pigs and a lost letter

Essendon will be determined to stretch Geelong's defence and ensure key back Harry Taylor does not push into attack, but a forward line with Hurley, Ryder, Crameri and Gumbleton would surely be too top-heavy.

Hird has already flagged several tough decisions at Thursday's selection meeting.

"We've got a really good squad, a really fit squad, and we've got guys playing good football. We'll have a challenge to pick a team, and there will be some guys who will miss out and be unlucky, but we'll assess that as the week goes on," Hird said.

Geelong expects Paul Chapman (hamstring) to be fit despite a fortnight out of the side.

But while Nathan Vardy kicked six goals for the Cats in the VFL on Saturday, he is likely to need more time before returning to the AFL.

"The plan is to play him for as long as he needs to get match conditioning and I dare say that will be for a few more weeks yet, there's no question about that," Geelong's VFL coach Matthew Knights said on the weekend.

"Let's hope he keeps being able to string training sessions and games together and in the coming weeks, down the track, he can push for senior selection."

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Double or nothing for Waite

Jarrad Waite faces a one-match suspension for this incident against Demon Tom McDonald

The future of St Kilda's Justin Koschitzke is in serious doubt after a tumultuous night against Collingwood.

Jarrad Waite wrestles with James Strauss at the MCG yesterday. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Justin Koschitzke looks back as Jamie Elliott lies on the turf. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

CARLTON faces a tough call to try to maintain key forward Jarrad Waite's long-awaited comeback.

The Blues must decide whether to fight Waite's one-match suspension for a light headbutt and risk doubling the penalty.

It could argue to the AFL Tribunal tonight that the big forward's action against Melbourne backman Tom McDonald was insufficient force to be reportable.

The biggest umpiring calls of Round 6

The match review panel assessed Waite's contact to McDonald's head during the first quarter on Sunday as intentional conduct with low impact.

Video evidence showed a field umpire, only a metre away, appeared not even to caution Waite and the Demon defender did not react to the slight contact.

Waite, who played his first senior game after an injury-interrupted start to the season, would miss a home game against Port Adelaide as well as Monday night against St Kilda if he failed with a tribunal challenge.

The panel deemed Richmond forward Ty Vickery's contact to Geelong captain Joel Selwood at the MCG the previous night as below the force required to constitute a reportable offence.

St Kilda ruckman Justin Koschitzke copped a two-match suspension for striking Collingwood's Jamie Elliott on Friday night.

Koschitzke's record of three matches served in the past two years added a 10 per cent demerit-point loading and means he is stuck with the penalty - and stuck three short of the 200-game milestone.

The panel hit the Saints big man with a three-match ban, reduced by one if he pleads guilty, after assessing his off-the-ball raised left arm as intentional with medium impact.

Hawthorn forward Lance Franklin is in the clear for his contact to Adelaide's Andy Otten after the panel decided his momentum took both players to the ground, an action that resulted in a 50m penalty but no charge.

North Melbourne ruckman Todd Goldstein has no case to answer from contact to Port Adelaide's Justin Westhoff in Saturday's game in Hobart.

A match-day report against Demon Luke Tapscott for rough conduct against Carlton's Kade Simpson was overturned.

Selwood was fined $1800 for a second wrestling offence and Richmond's former skipper Chris Newman is $900 out of pocket after their boundary line scuffle on Saturday night.

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The Barometer: Round 7

Jarrad Waite faces a one-match suspension for this incident against Demon Tom McDonald

Chris Dawes has played two VFL games and could be recalled for his Dees debut this week. Picture: Derrick Den Hollander Source: Herald Sun

WHO'S hurt and who is in line for selection at your club?

ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Nathan Van Berlo (knee) 2 weeks
Sam Shaw (hamstring) 5 weeks
Sam Siggins (ankle) 1 week
Taylor Walker (knee) season
Lewis Johnston (knee) 8 weeks
Brad Crouch (hamstring) 1-2 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: MATT Wright started as the sub against Hawthorn and finished with seven disposals while Jarryd Lyons only had 10 touches before being subbed off. Luke Brown had another low disposal count but that hasn't hurt him at selection so far.

ON THE CUSP: Ian Callinan had 22 touches and kicked two goals for Central Districts and Graham Johncock booted two for Port Magpies. Jared Petrenko had 18 disposals and a goal. Lewis Johston is out as a potential Taylor Walker replacement after hurting his left knee in the SANFL.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The man the Crows really need to get going is Sam Jacobs. He is well down on his outstanding 2012 form and it is making life a lot tougher for the Adelaide midfield. Patrick Dangerfield returned to form with a bang on Saturday, big Sauce might be next. Fixtures against GWS and St Kilda in the next two weeks give the Crows a chance to jump back into the finals mix.

If you don't mind, umpire!

BRISBANE

INJURIES
Claye Beams (knee) - season
Stef Martin (ankle) - 5 weeks
Jared Polec (ankle) - 5 weeks
Jesse O'Brien (adductor) - 2 weeks
Matt McGuire (ankle) - 1 week
Daniel Rich (shoulder) - 6 weeks
Steven Wrigley (knee) - season

ON THE BLOCK: Plenty to choose from if Michael Voss wants to swing the axe. Marco Paparone, Rohan Bewick, Sam Mayes and Josh Green were all quiet against the Swans, while Aaron Cornelius was subbed off after just three kicks.

ON THE CUSP: Sam Docherty was best afield in the Lions reserves' 23-point win against Sydney's twos in the NEAFL. Jordan Lisle bagged another four goals while Patrick Karnezis kicked three. Ryan Harwood is also pushing for a senior berth. Voss said Simon Black was close to full match fitness last week and he must be tempted to give the veteran a call.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Lions get West Coast at just the wrong time and that's only the start of a horror run – with Essendon, Carlton, Collingwood, Fremantle, Geelong and Hawthorn to follow in the next seven weeks. Unless they can find something a 2-9 scoreline would put Voss in a very uncomfortable position.

Marco Paparone, Justin Clarke and Sam Docherty of the Lions celebrate beating Melbourne. Picture: Darren England Source: The Courier-Mail

CARLTON

INJURIES
Andrew Carrazzo (calf) Test
Chris Yarran (hamstring) Test
Bryce Gibbs (hamstring) Test
Jarrad Waite (suspension) 1 week
Matthew Kreuzer (thumb) 5 weeks
Andrew McInnes (knee) 5-6 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: THEY waited a long time for him to come back, now Jarrad Waite will go straight back out. He has been suspended for one match for headbutting Melbourne's Tom McDonald. The clash against Melbourne was Waite's first senior game of the year and only his 12th since the start of last season following his battle with back and leg injuries. It was poor form by Waite, who should know better. Chris Yarran is also a good chance to miss with hamstring tightness. They won't want to risk him.

ON THE CUSP - Andrew Carazzo came out late against Melbourne and should return from a corked calf. Likewise Bryce Gibbs. Tom Bell and Levi Casboult both impressed in the VFL at the weekend and would have to be a chance.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: THINGS are starting to look up at Carlton. They are over their hard patch, have come out of it pretty well and now face St Kilda after a good, long break. They are playing good, exciting football. And with Eddie Betts, Chris Yarran and Jeff Garlett on song up forward, they are very hard to stop.

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COLLINGWOOD

INJURIES
Dayne Beams (Quad) 1-2 weeks
Brodie Grundy (Back) 1-2 weeks
Lachlan Keeffe (Knee) 1-2 weeks
Nick Maxwell (Fractured wrist) 1-2 weeks
Clinton Young (Hamstring) 1-2 weeks
Michael Hartley (Shoulder) 3 weeks
Tim Broomhead (Glandular Fever) 4-5 weeks
Jack Frost (knee) 5-6 weeks
Jackson Ramsay Wrist 6-7 weeks
Alan Toovey (knee) Season

ON THE BLOCK: HE wasn't playing in the seniors, but terrible to see defender Jack Frost go down with a knee injury in the VFL at the weekend. He's out for 5-6 weeks. Also in the twos, small forward Alex Fasolo has been reporting for rough conduct. In terms of the seniors this week, the likes of Jarrod Witts, Josh Thomas and Ben Kennedy may find themselves in the gun, despite the win over St Kilda. Because there are a few impending inclusions.

ON THE CUSP: SOME big names are on the cusp at Collingwood. The Magpies say both midfielder Luke Ball and Alan Didak are very close to coming in after shining in the VFL on Sunday. Will both come in? Didak could be the spark they are looking for, but Rodney Eade said on AFL360 Ball was likely to spend one more game in the VFL.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: JUST did enough against St Kilda, but there was little to get excited about for Pies supporters. This week they face the Nathan Fyfe-less Fremantle at Patersons Stadium this week. The task itself won't trouble the Pies, who have a very strong away record. But they need to find something as they are still way below their best. And have been for a long time. Really missing Dayne Beams.

Luke Ball pushes himself at Collingwood training. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON

INJURIES
Brent Stanton (groin) test

ON THE BLOCK: James Hird said after Saturday's win against GWS he was "very hopeful" Brent Stanton would overcome a groin injury in time to play Geelong but with the game on Friday night he has to be a long shot. With up to six first-choice players returning some will have to make way – Nick Kommer, Leroy Jetta, Jackson Merrett, Tayte Pears and Scott Gumbleton might get the bad news on Thursday. David Hille definitely won't be at Etihad Stadium – he's in France after being given two weeks' leave to attend a long-standing family commitment.

ON THE CUSP: Get your pen and paper ready – Michael Hurley (ankle), Jake Carlisle (ankle), Dustin Fletcher (groin), Dyson Heppell (groin), Patrick Ryder (suspension) and Jason Winderlich (rested) are all ready to return. Don't expect a big push for Joe Daniher to make his debut this week. He snagged two goals as Essendon went down to Coburg in the VFL. Corey Dell'Olio kicked three goals in that game while an interesting name in the best players was former Gold Coast defender Josh Toy.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: Hope you have a ticket already for what is a genuine blockbuster at Etihad Stadium on Friday night. Essendon took about two-and-a-half quarters longer than expected to blow GWS away and they won't get away with the same sort of sluggish start this week. But with possibly an entire list to choose from, the Bombers have every reason to believe they will be 7-0 on Saturday morning.

The Herald Sun's Michael Warner says Essendon Chairman, David Evans, should consider resigning.

Essendon's Brent Stanton shakes off his GWS opponent at Manuka Oval. Picture: Kym Smith Source: The Daily Telegraph

FREMANTLE

INJURIES

Kepler Bradley (knee) season
Anthony Morabito (knee) season
Aaron Sandiland (foot) 5 weeks
Matthew Pavlich (Achilles) 4 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: NOT too many. The Dockers unlikely to make too many changes for their clash against Collingwood at Patersons Stadium. They don't need to after what was a strong performance against the Gold Coast Suns at Metricon Stadium. If there is a change or two, Tendai Mzungu and Cameron Sutcliffe might be the unlucky ones to be looked at.

ON THE CUSP: THE only probably in looks to be star midfielder Stephen Hill. He missed the win over the Suns with a quadriceps injury, but coach Ross Lyon is hopeful he will return to tackle the Magpies. Given they are already without the suspended Nathan Fyfe (why oh why did they challenge that again?), they will need Hill against Collingwood's gun midfielders.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: A LITTLE bit of a statement against Gold Coast last week. Quite a few suggested they were ripe for the picking at Metricon Stadium last Saturday night. The Dockers were having none of it and put the Suns back in their place. But this is a much bigger challenge. They will go in primed for a massive scalp. They are every chance as well up against a Collingwood side well below their best.

Top 40 gallery: See the best photos from Round 6

GEELONG

INJURIES
Paul Chapman (hamstring) test
Travis Varcoe (shoulder) 8-10 weeks
Daniel Menzel (knee) season
Jared Rivers (knee) indefinite
Josh Cowan (Achilles) indefinite
Hamish McIntosh (knee) indefinite
George Burbury (foot) indefinite
Jed Bews (foot) indefinite
Dawson Simpson (back) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: NOT many for this undefeated powerhouse. Jordan Murdoch and George Horlin-Smith wore the red and green vests respectively to border dangerously on the edge, but the Cats had a wealth of performers against the Tigers on Saturday night.

ON THE CUSP: PAUL Chapman is expected to return for the Friday night blockbuster against the Bombers after missing two weeks with a hamstring. Nathan Vardy booted six goals in the VFL but the Cats won't rush him, while first-round pick Jackson Thurlow – who has drawn some comparison to Corey Enright with his style of play – remains in the frame.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: A MASSIVE three-week stretch looms for the Cats, starting against the Dons on Friday night. After that it's the Pies and a resurgent Port Adelaide away, while their side is as good as it's going get with only Chapman to come back in the foreseeable future. A pair of victories from that stretch will have the Cats all but locked in for a top-four finish with a swathe of matches at the redeveloped Simonds Stadium to follow.

Paul Chapman attempts to bust a tackle. Picture: Bear Mitch Source: Herald Sun

GWS GIANTS

INJURIES
Dean Brogan (suspended) available
Matthew Buntine (lung) available
Lachie Whitfield (soreness) test
Setanta O'hAilpin (calf) TBC
Dom Tyson (knee) 3 weeks
Phil Davis (back) 5 weeks
Chad Cornes (shoulder) indefinite
Jon Patton (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: THE Giants played their best match for the year, so don't expect too much change. Zac Williams butchered the footy a little bit after starting as the sub.

ON THE CUSP: THE Giants reserves had a bye at the weekend, but expect Lachie Whitfield to come back in after missing with soreness. Dean Brogan should return after serving a three-match ban, while Adam Kennedy was a late withdrawal on Saturday.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: A TESTING period awaits leading into the bye with matches against the Crows, Eagles, Blues and Hawks ahead. But with kids in the ilk of Jono O'Rourke, Matt Buntine and Lachie Whitfield to return – and Jezza Cameron starting to hit his straps – the bright future continues to shine blindly. Jacob Townsend's negating role against Jobe Watson at the weekend was also a tremendous victory.

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HAWTHORN

INJURIES
Xavier Ellis (calf) test
Jed Anderson (hamstring) test
Brent Guerra (knee) test
Brendan Whitecross (knee) 3 weeks
Cyril Rioli (hamstring) 5-7 weeks
Matthew Suckling (knee) indefinite
Alex Woodward (knee) indefinite
Ryan Schoenmakers (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: NOT many. Jon Simpkin looked ok when he came on in his Hawks debut on Saturday, while youngster Taylor Duryea's use of the footy was excellent. Don't expect much change this week. Buddy escaped punishment from the match review panel. Scans have cleared Brent Guerra of any serious damage, so expect him to front up on Saturday night.

ON THE CUSP: AGAIN, expect little change for the Hawks. Shane Savage impressed in the Hawks' big VFL win over the baby Bendigo side, while Kyle Cheney remains on the fringe. Mitch Hallahan is also showing promising signs, while Xavier Ellis could return for Box Hill this week. Max Bailey was a late out at the weekend.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: A MASSIVE test this week for the Hawks, who are winning despite having key players down on output in an impressive sign. Don't expect much change after the victory against the Crows, while this week ends Hawthorn's nightmare start to the season where it faced every 2012 finalist.

GOLD COAST

INJURIES
Charlie Dixon (ankle) test
Steven May (hamstring) test
Daniel Gorringe (hamstring) TBA
Matthew Warnock (arm) indefinite
Joel Wilkinson (ankle) 2-4 weels
Seb Tape (knee) 2 week
Maverick Weller (shoulder) 1 week
Nathan Bock (leg) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: BRANDON Matera needs to show a hell of a lot more than what he did against Fremantle, as we all know he is capable of it. But expect to see him stay in as they will need him to beat Melbourne. Matt Shaw and Aaron Hall are also running out of credits. Charlie Dixon was subbed out with an ankle injury against Fremantle, but it is not major. He is considered a good chance of getting up this week.

ON THE CUSP: The versatile Steven May missed last week with a hamstring niggle, but is a good chance of returning this week. It will be interesting to see whether exciting forward Liam Patrick is considered after a strong performance in his NEAFL return last week.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: Very disappointing performance against Fremantle. But they need to wipe the slate clean and get themselves back up quickly because this is a very winnable game against Melbourne at the MCG on Sunday. In fact, all things being equal, they should beat Melbourne. It all depends on their mindset. They need to rediscover the killer instinct that saw them dispose of St Kilda in Round 1 and put away the Giants a fortnight ago.

Gold Coast Suns Charlie Dixon celebrates a goal against GWS at Manuka Oval. Picture: Kym Smith Source: The Sunday Telegraph

MELBOURNE

INJURIES

Mark Jamar (groin) TBC
Jack Watts (hamstring) TBC
Jack Grimes (collarbone) 4-8 weeks
Mitch Clark (foot) 5-6 weeks

ON THE BLOCK- This is not the week for wholesale changes at Melbourne. It is a winnable game, so they will want to keep the side reasonably settled, within reason. They lose co-captain Jack Grimes with a broken collarbone. The big question is what to do with Jack Trengove? He needs to find some form, because he is really struggling. But do they drop him given the other co-captain is already injured? Big decision for coach Mark Neeld.

ON THE CUSP- Finally, Chris Dawes should come in. The former Magpie will slot straight in at full-forward, which is great news given there is no Mitch Clark there. Neville Jetta will return from suspension. Expect to also see David Rodan in the mix.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST- Whether they deserve to or not, Melbourne will head into the clash against the Suns at the MCG as favourites. It's a winnable game for them, that's for sure. But they are terribly low on confidence and the Suns will be up for it. They can't avoid to fly the white flag this week, otherwise the spotlight shines right back on them.

NORTH MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Robbie Tarrant (leg) test
Dan Currie (thumb) 6 weeks
Tom Curran (foot) season

ON THE BLOCK: Will Sierakowski performed gamely in his AFL debut collecting 11 disposals. Substitute Taylor Hine didn't get a lot of opportunity and could come under scrutiny at selection. Majak Daw did a lot right in his third AFL game but looms as the first tall to fall pending Robbie Tarrant's fitness.

ON THE CUSP: Veteran playmaker Brent Harvey is a walk-up start. Tarrant must prove his fitness after missing his second match with a leg injury and rebounding defender Ben Jacobs made his case for a recall collecting 31 disposals in VFL-affiliate North Ballarat's win over Frankston. Fringe midfielder Levi Greenwood was solid against VFL premiers Geelong while Jordan Gysberts relished his move onto the wing, finishing with 23 touches and a goal.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Boomer's back! Harvey will inject speed and class into a Kangaroos line-up crying out for effective ball use in Saturday's clash against the Western Bulldogs. Aaron Black has done enough to warrant his selection while young rebounding defenders Shaun Atley and Jamie Macmillan continue to impress with their ball-winning ability and dash off half-back. The Kangaroos face a good test against the Doggies being led superbly by ruckman Will Minson, one of the competition's best at giving his midfielders first use. With a road trip to Perth the following week this looms as a must-win for the Shinboners looking to get their season back on track.

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PORT ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Jasper Pittard (hip flexor) test
Danny Butcher (AC joint) available
Brett Ebert (adductor) 2-4 weeks
Jackson Trengove (foot) 9 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Brent Renouf and Paul Stewart wore the green and red vests on Saturday and neither set the world on fire. Campbell Heath had only six disposals for the afternoon and Lewis Stevenson nine. Kane Mitchell made the most of his chance to pick up 15 disposals and seems safe.

ON THE CUSP: Alipate Carlile said today Jasper Pittard is a 50-50 chance to return from his hip flexor injury against the Tigers on Saturday but that might be optimistic. Sam Colquhoun has been an emergency four times this season – including each of the past three weeks - and must be close to a debut after being named in the best again for Central District. Andrew Moore is also waiting for a chance, he was named in North Adelaide's best players.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: No Ken Hinkley, no Port Adelaide? The coach will be back delivering instructions in person this weekend instead of text messages and although there will be fewer opportunities to use emoticons, the personal touch will be a big boost after Port dropped its first game of the year. Who ever thought facing the Power on the rebound would be a big issue this season?

Jasper Pittard shows his much stronger frame at Port Adelaide training. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

RICHMOND

INJURIES
Reece Conca (foot) 3-4 weeks
Brett O'Hanlon (ankle) TBA
Ivan Maric (ankle) test
Tyrone Vickery (concussion) test
Ricky Petterd (calf) test

ON THE BLOCK: After an almost injury-free start to the season, the Tigers suddenly have a host of sore bodies – and at the worst possible time. As well as the above list Jake King has a hand injury and Dylan Grimes has a sore foot. They will both fly to Adelaide and Maric is a good chance to play but Vickery has to pass a concussion test and Petterd might miss. If there is a selection change due to form, Matt White seems the most likely casualty. He was subbed on for Vickery just after halftime against the Cats and struggled to have any impact on the contest.

ON THE CUSP: Better news here for Tiger fans. Coburg scored an impressive win against Essendon's VFL side on Saturday with several players putting their names forward for senior selection. Shane Tuck returned from a week's rest to gather 25 disposals while Nathan Foley is ready to go after 24 touches of his own. Former Roo Aaron Edwards had 22 disposals and took 16 marks, adding two goals to take his tally to 14 in the past three weeks. Robin Nahas booted four, as did young tall Liam McBean. If Maric and/or Vickery doesn't come up, former Cat Orren Stephenson is waiting in the wings.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: Is it too early to say Richmond's season is on the line against Port Adelaide on Saturday? After a flying start the Tiger bandwagon is looking wobbly and the AAMI Stadium clash might determine which of these two teams plays in September. After that the Tigers face Melbourne before tough assignments against Essendon and West Coast leading into the bye.

Cometh the man. Cometh the mullet. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

ST KILDA

INJURIES
Sam Gilbert (knee) TBA
Lenny Hayes (calf) 2-3 weeks
Daniel Markworth (knee) season
Adam Schneider (hamstring) 1-3 weeks
Beau Maister (wrist) 2-4 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Brodie Murdoch had just one kick after being subbed on during the Saints' loss to Collingwood and Josh Saunders could also get a rest, while Ahmed Saad's form is a major worry – he didn't register a score on Friday night. But St Kilda will already be making forced changes after losing Gilbert during the game, Hayes in the warm-up and Justin Koschitzke to suspension.

ON THE CUSP: Farren Ray has earned a recall after picking up 26 disposals and kicking two goals as Sandringham came from 38 points down late in the third term to score a remarkable win against the Northern Blues yesterday. Tom Ledger (31 disposals) is due for another chance while James Gwilt picked up 18 touches in his return from a knee injury. Tom Hickey hasn't dominated but is the most likely replacement for Kosi. Excitement machine Spencer White was given the weekend off.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Saints took Sydney and Collingwood almost to the wire and will give themselves a chance on Monday night after defeating Carlton in their two meetings last season. Gwilt will come in for Gilbert and Hickey covers Kosi, but Lenny isn't so easy to replace. Scott Watters needs Nick Dal Santo to show he isn't a spent force.

SYDNEY

INJURIES
Rhyce Shaw (abdominal strain) test
Lewis Roberts-Thompson (knee) 5-7 weeks
Gary Rohan (leg) indefinite
Alex Johnson (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: NOT many ahead of the Grand Final rematch. Jed Lamb, the flashy kid who resembled Stevie J a bit in his final TAC Cup year, looked good when he came on in his debut, while it was a fairly even Swans unit that crushed the Lions yesterday.

ON THE CUSP: MITCH Morton booted five – this time against a stronger NEAFL opponent (Brisbane Lions) to remain in the frame, while Jesse White was again superb. Morton sparked the Swans in last year's flag decider and could earn a reprieve based on that, while Rhyce Shaw is also close. Tommy Mitchell, the father-son sensation hampered by knee problems thus far, is now fit and also impressing in the reserves.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: THE Swans are flying under the radar, as they do every year, but a huge test this Saturday night awaits. Can they instil more mental damage to the Hawks with another win? A testing month follows, too, with battles against the Pies, Bombers and Crows set to determine exactly where the premiers sit.

Rhyce Shaw dashes out of defence. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

WEST COAST

INJURIES
Murray Newman (knee) 3 weeks
Mark Nicoski (hamstring) 2 weeks
Sam Butler (calf) 1 week
Beau Waters (adductor) 1 week
Andrew Embley (foot) Test
Luke Shuey (calf) Test
Colledge (jaw) Available

ON THE BLOCK: It's hard to change a winning formula, but with several big names still to come back into the side over the next few weeks there are likely to be some changes. Fringe midfielder Bradd Dalziell is one of those players in the gun, as is rookie ruckman Callum Sinclair, who may be forced out by the successful return of Nic Naitanui against the Bulldogs. Will Schofield is likely to be retained despite being dropped last week, before earning a late reprieve when Beau Waters withdrew due to injury. Neither Waters or Sam Butler will be available to take on the Lions.

ON THE CUSP: Wingman Matt Rosa played his third straight WAFL match after thigh surgery and will almost certainly return against Brisbane on Saturday. Both he and Adam Selwood were among East Perth's best players. Untried midfielder Mark Hutchings continues to knock on the door following another strong performance for West Perth, as will former Collingwood forward Brad Dick after his eight-goal haul for East Fremantle. Veteran Andrew Embley faces a fitness test on his injured foot.

MICHAEL WASHBOURNE'S FORECAST: The Eagles will be looking to continue their resurgence after Sunday's huge win over the Bulldogs. Naitanui and Sharrod Wellingham both played their first games of the season and will only be better for the run. West Coast lost the corresponding fixture to the Lions up at the Gabba last year and will no doubt be quietly seeking redemption for that shock two-point defeat.

WESTERN BULLDOGS

INJURIES
Nick Lower (eye) available
Jake Stringer (corkie) available
Tom Williams (adductor) test
Ryan Griffen (shoulder) test
Daniel Giansiracusa (shoulder) test
Robert Murphy (calf) test
Brett Goodes (suspension) 1 week
Michael Talia (jaw) 3-5 weeks
Lin Jong (leg) 6 weeks
Tory Dickson (ankle) 5 weeks
Easton Wood (hamstring) TBC
Shaun Higgins (foot) season

ON THE BLOCK: ALL the kids tried hard, but with experience set to return some must make way this week. Speedster Jason Johannisen could be one after tracking at just 56 per cent efficiency, while Jason Tutt and Christian Howard could also be unlucky omissions.

ON THE CUSP: PLENTY. The Dogs are every chance to welcome back 633 games of experience against the Roos with Robert Murphy, Ryan Griffen and Daniel Giansiracusa all likely to be available. With Brett Goodes to follow next week and a favourable month ahead, the timing bodes well for Brendan McCartney's evolving side. And while he's a while off senior footy, exciting for Dogs fans that late draft pick Josh Prudden – who Scott Wynd helped develop – is impressing in the VFL, along with midfield wrecking ball Nathan Hrovat.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: THE Dogs were far more competitive than the 70-point margin showed against the Eagles, winning the contested footy count and inside 50s. Clay Smith played one of his best games since that sparkling four-goal debut, Jordan Roughead looks a find at full-back and Liam Jones presented well after quarter-time. With three A-graders close to returning and winnable games ahead, a big month looms for the Dogs. They enjoyed their best win of 2012 against the Roos last year – can they repeat that effort this week?

AFL football - Adelaide Crows v Western Bulldogs round 4 match at AAMI Stadium - footballer Ryan Griffen Picture: Simon Cross Source:

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Bomber margin no win for punters

Essendon coach James Hird says he used structure over emotion to beat GWS on Saturday night.

Bomber Nick Kommer flies to try to foil a catch from Jonathan Giles. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON eventually got the points against GWS on Saturday afternoon, but the Bombers left punters in no mood for celebrating.

TAB bookmakers were so adamant that the Bombers were set for a big win that they even tinkered with their margin betting.

"We had Essendon winning by 1-59 points as the rank outsider for them at $5, the line opened at 80.5 points and moved to 90.5 by game time,'' TAB's Adam Hamilton said.

Betstar's Alan Eskander said: "In margin betting Essendon 40+ was paying just $1.08 and appeared in plenty of multi bets.''

A late Giants goal resulted in the Bombers winning by 39 points.

Essendon winning by 1-39.5 points was paying $8 with Betstar.

After GWS kicked the first goal of the third quarter, Essendon hit $1.50 in live betting with TAB.

"By three quarter-time the Bombers were back into $1.01.''

Spare a thought for the Sportingbet punter who parted $10,000 on the Bombers at $1.01.

"He made himself $100 profit, but I am guessing he endured plenty of heartache along the way,'' Sporingbet's Andrew Brown said.

Essendon was also backed into $1.80 with TAB to be the highest scoring team of the round.

"At halftime with the Bombers on just 26 those punters must have been feeling sick, the Bombers flew home to finish on 120, but the Cats eclipsed that total on Saturday night scoring 31,'' Hamilton said.

FAVOURITE PUNTERS

ALL nine favourite's won on the weekend with TAB reporting strong interest in the multi.

The nine-leg multi came to odds of $4.47 and involved Collingwood ($1.22), Essendon ($1.01), North Melbourne ($1.33), Hawthorn ($1.17), Fremantle ($1.45), Geelong ($1.42), Sydney ($1.06), Carlton ($1.02) and West Coast ($1.05) with TAB.

The biggest bet for the weekend was the Centrebet punter who plonked $300,000 on Sydney at $1.07 for a painless $21,000 profit.

COMING UP

GEELONG has opened favourite to continue its unbeaten start to 2013 by beating Essendon on Friday night.

"We have the Cats at $1.60 and Bombers $2.30 in our head-to-head markets," TAB's Adam Hamilton said.

In the unlikely event that the game is moved from Etihad Stadium to the MCG, then all bets placed prior to the announcement will be refunded.

"Our rules stipulate that the game must be played at the venue listed so if the game was moved we would frame a new market," Hamilton said.

HOT PIES

After opening at $1.15 Collingwood got out to $1.25 before its clash against St Kilda with Sportingbet, but the Magpies were crunched back into $1.22 late after the withdrawal of Lenny Hayes.

"As much as $1.45 was bet about them in live betting against St Kilda. One Sportingbet punter took advantage of the inflated odds and put $5k on at $1.40 in the run," Sportingbet's Andrew Brown said.

LATEST ODDS

Premiership

Hawthorn 3.5
Geelong 5
Essendon 6.5
Collingwood 7.5
Sydney 7.5
Carlton 13
West Coast 17
Fremantle 21
Richmond 21
Nth Melb 41
Adelaide 81
Port Adelaide 81
St Kilda 251
Brisbane 501
W Bulldogs 1001
Gold Coast 1001

Brownlow

Jobe Watson 5
Trent Cotchin 6.5
Gary Ablett 8
Joel Selwood 9
Sam Mitchell 10
Scott Pendlebury 13
Patrick Dangerfield 15
Dane Swan 15
Jarrad McVeigh 21
Chris Judd 21
Kieren Jack 21

Coleman Medal

Lance Franklin 3
Jack Riewoldt 3.5
Travis Cloke 6
Lindsay Thomas 6
Josh Kennedy 13
Tom Hawkins 13
Nick Riewoldt 13

Most Losses

GWS 1.2
Melbourne 4.5
W Bulldogs 15
Gold Coast 26
Brisbane 151
 

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Mick has troops on war footing

Carlton have elevated themselves into the top eight after a 61-point thumping of Melbourne at the MCG.

Chris Judd is tackled by Demons Jake Spencer and Nathan Jones. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Herald Sun

MICK Malthouse has always fancied himself as a battlefield general, plotting and strategising his way to victory.

Today his side seized the battle against dogged Melbourne, but the greater joy for Malthouse might be finally assembling an arsenal that could eventually see him win the war.

For the first time in his short tenure yesterday Malthouse was able to witness the potency of a forward line featuring not only his brilliant mosquito fleet, but veteran forward Jarrad Waite.

And if Waite wasn't quite best afield, the added dimension it gave Carlton's forward line was stark: the Blues took 22 contested marks, had 31 shots at goal, and finally look capable of competing in September.

Any question marks about Waite's ability to make an instant impact were quickly dispatched by his 10 marks and two goals, as were doubts about playing all of Eddie Betts, Chris Yarran, and Jeff Garlett in the same forward line.

Full stats, SuperCoach points and more at LiveHQ

That quartet were involved in all five of Carlton's electric first-quarter goals, waxing and flicking the ball around like they were training at Visy Park.

With Shaun Hampson taking five contested marks and Matthew Kreuzer returning soon, Carlton is quickly amassing lethal forward options.

By the time Betts matched Garlett's four-goal haul with a post-siren torpedo from 50m to make it a 61-point victory, it was apparent Carlton's swagger was back.

It wasn't Yarran's day - subbed off with a tight hamstring - and Waite's borderline headbutt on Tom McDonald will get match review panel heat.

Eddie Betts takes a flying mark against Melbourne. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

But now that the Blues are back to parity at 3-3, they have St Kilda, Port Adelaide (Etihad Stadium), Brisbane and the Gold Coast and a potential 7-3 platform to iron out any remaining kinks in the game plan.

Betts, Marc Murphy, rebounder Andrew Walker and Heath Scotland were all dominant, but there is no question Waite is the club's most important player.

''I have been training pretty hard over the last month, just trying to get my touch back, because the last few times it has taken me a few games to get into it,'' he said.

"Last week down at Preston I felt really good with where I was at. It is just all about my rehab and injury prevention now. The calf was a number of things - it flared up a couple of times, but as long as I am on top of everything, I should be fine.

"With our small forwards they are going to be guarding (the space) behind so we were trying to get that hit up and just with creating space, it worked out well for us.''

That it took the Blues most of four quarters to turn yesterday's MCG contest into a rout was to the eternal credit of the undermanned Melbourne.

Four of today's Demons had played their first game this year, three more had just 24 games experience between them, and captain Jack Grimes was floored by a serious shoulder injury just 14 minutes into the contest.

Health Scotland collars Luke Tapscott. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Yet if a Demons side already missing Mark Jamar, Jack Watts, Mitch Clark and Chris Dawes never threatened to win, the performance of the unheralded kids was highly commendable.

Lynden Dunn did a superb job on Chris Judd, Rohan Bail curtailed Brock McLean, and across the ground the no-name midfield held up with aplomb.

The sight of Colin Sylvia, busting a gut as he closed on Yarran in a 50m chase, was representative of a side outclassed yet determined to go down fighting.

Captain Jack Trengove (eight disposals) just cannot find the Sherrin, but as far as honourable 10-goal losses go, it fitted the bill.

Melbourne is all about building respect under Mark Neeld, yet for opponent Carlton a season that coughed and spluttered is quickly working its way through the gears into overdrive.

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Grimes out for up to two months

Carlton have elevated themselves into the top eight after a 61-point thumping of Melbourne at the MCG.

Jack Grimes lays injured on the turf after breaking his collabone against the Blues at the MCG. Source: Getty Images

DEMONS co-captain Jack Grimes will miss up to two months after breaking his collarbone in Melbourne's 61-point loss to Carlton.

The injury soured what was already a disappointing day for the Dees in front of 35,286 fans at the MCG.

Carlton coach Mick Malthouse described the game as scrappy, but said he would take a 10-goal win "every day of the week".

He also praised the performance of forward Jarrad Waite who kicked two goals in his long-awaited return from a calf injury.

Melbourne counterpart Mark Neeld said he was pleased with his side's effort, but said a lack of composure was the major difference between the two sides.

"And I think, with our effort that was mentioned earlier, right now because of that learning of the game and the composure we're not seeing scoreboard reward for effort," Neeld said."But if that effort stays that will come."

Grimes' left shoulder was driven in to the turf after a legitimate tackle by Jeff Garlett and former Dee Brock McLean midway through the first term.

He was taken to hospital soon after coming from the ground. It is the latest in a long-line of injuries for Grimes, 24 this week.

He was plagued by back, hip and groin injuries in his first three seasons while a navicular injury sidelined him for most of 2011.

"He's had a couple of injuries, Jack," Neeld said.

"But, again, that's a part of the game. He's a courageous young fella and if you put your head over it and put your nose over it these things happen."

Malthouse said Carlton had missed Waite's leadership in the forward half throughout the first five rounds.

The 30-year-old may cop some attention from the Match Review Panel today, but his head brush with opposition defender Tom McDonald is unlikely to have been with enough force to constitute a reportable offence.

"He's a player that clearly gives a bit of direction," Malthouse said.

"I reckon early we were a bit over-conscious of him and we kicked the football to him when he wasn't in the best position.

"But him not being there in the first five or six weeks meant that we were a little bit less predictable, I don't want to become overly predictable by just saying 'OK, there it is, Jarrad Waite's there'.

"But he was clearly a very good footballer for us today."

Chris Yarran suffered tightness in his right hamstring and was substituted in the fourth quarter, but Malthouse said he had no major concern about his fitness heading into next Monday's clash with St Kilda.

Melbourne is likely to have forward Chris Dawes available for his first game for the club against Gold Coast next Sunday at the MCG.

Neeld said there would be no undue internal pressure to defeat the young Suns.

"We need to ensure that the effort is there, the continued effort," Neeld said.

"We will need to work on composure with the ball. We're going to run around (against) a similar experience side that we put out there."

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Eagles back as Dogs demolished

Eagle Josh Hill celebrates the last goal of the game, to take the margin out to 70 points. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

Eagle Darren Glass has eyes for the ball as he marks in defence. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

WEST Coast finally recorded its first home win of the season, with the Eagles rediscovering their ability to kick straight as they punished the Western Bulldogs in a 70-point drubbing at Patersons Stadium.

Plucky against powerhouse Geelong last week, there was less to admire yesterday as the Bulldogs crashed to the 16th loss in their past 17 games.

Supply wasn't the problem but finding reliable goal avenues was as the visitors had no answer to an army of West Coast forward threats, lead by Jack Darling who kicked all five of his goals in the opening half.

Bulldogs spearhead Liam Jones, who has twice kicked bags of four this season, took several impressive grabs opposed to Eagles defender Eric Mackenzie but his only goal came with the game well and truly over midway through the last quarter.

Most of the attention of the home crowd was on returning pair Nic Naitanui and Sharrod Wellingham, who were both playing for the first time this season.

Wellingham, who suffered a serious ankle injury in a trampoline accident 11 weeks ago, was a solid contributor in his first game since crossing from Collingwood in the off-season.

Bulldog Matthew Boyd gets a handball away despite the efforts of Eagle Dean Cox. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

Naitanui entered the game to rapturous applause mid-way through the third quarter, having started as the substitute, and wasted little time impressing with some deft ruckwork.

Having lost the centre clearances 12-5 in the first half, the Eagles fared noticeably better in the centre square battle from the time Naitanui was injected, while Dean Cox celebrated the return of his All-Australian ruck partner by kicking four goals.

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West Coast's hopes of finishing in the top four were all but extinguished after spraying a total of 17.42 in losses to Carlton and Port Adelaide over the past fortnight.

Eagle Matthew Priddis is tackled by Bulldog Tom Liberatore Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

When Cox landed a stunning 50m set shot from the boundary line just two minutes into the match, the crowd sensed the tide might be turning.

Cox, who kicked two majors in the opening stanza, was lucky to avoid serious injury when Bulldogs ruckman Mark Austin collected him with a knee to the face in the centre circle late in the first quarter.

Adam Cooney had 17 disposals in the first half and underlined the class he adds to the Bulldogs' engine room with a brilliant snap from deep in the forward pocket midway through the second term.

The Western Bulldogs leave the field after the loss. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

Darling kicked three goals in the second quarter to make it five by half time as West Coast built a 32-point advantage by the major break.

The home side's lead came despite the Dogs squaring the inside 50 count and leading the tallies for clearances and contested possessions.

Two goals in the space of five minutes to Clay Smith interrupted a run of six goals to the Eagles in the third quarter as they took a comfortable 52-point lead to three quarter time.

Eagle Matthew Priddis is tackled by Bulldog Tom Liberatore Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

Josh Kennedy, goalless at half-time, picked up where Darling left off and kicked all four of his in the second half, while Cox kicked his fourth major after taking a strong mark in the goalsquare early in the final term.

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Stevie J: 200 and still above par

Steve Johnson holds up the Premiership Cup after beating Collingwood in 2011. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

STEVE Johnson's vision on the football field is the stuff of legend, but it goes to a whole new level on the golf course.

As yet another stray ball - not from Johnson but his playing partner - heads straight right into the deep rough the Cats star is locked on to it.

``It's why all the boys like playing with me because they never lose any balls,'' he says as he drives the cart to the tuft of grass he figures the errant golf ball will be hiding under.

And like magic, it's there.

This doesn't just happen once. It's every single time.

Dermott Brereton and the League Teams panel preview Richmond Tigers v Geelong Cats.

The funny thing is this X-ray vision is rarely required for his own purposes given none of his shots has deviated from going seemingly miles straight down the middle of the fairway.

There couldn't be a more fitting place to interview Johnson about his 200-game milestone than at the 13th Beach golf course at Barwon Heads.

His two passions in life are football and golf. And it's no surprise that he is exceptionally good at both.

He says his golf handicap is about seven but, given he's just a couple over par after nine holes, it's obvious that could easily be a few shots less if he played more.

Geelong's Steve Johnson tees off at an AFL golf day in 2010. Picture: Michael Dodge

"It has always been my passion,'' Johnson explains. "I used to live 50m from the second tee in Wangaratta.

"After school I would just walk through this little alley way to the second tee and play nine holes and then walk home and have dinner.

"That was most days. I would either be doing that or going down the river fishing.''

And when he wasn't playing golf or fishing, he was down at the local footy ground practising his vast array of tricks.

Steve Johnson celebrates after kicking a goal in the 2011 Grand Final. Picture: Nicole Garmston

"I have people always asking about how much time I've spent practising the snaps,'' he says. "The answer is 'forever', although I don't really classify the snap as a trick because for me it's just a normal kick.

"You speak to anyone down at my local footy club in Wangaratta and they would say, 'Stevie spent hours outside the clubrooms kicking right-foot snaps trying to take soft drinks off his mates'.

"I used to play for a can of Coke after training.''

He then pauses before adding: "I didn't have to pay for too many.''

Steve Johnson tries to mark as he holds off Harry O'Brien Picture: Michael Klein

So what's the best goal out of the 384 he has kicked since his debut in 2002?

"I kicked a lucky goal which I think was in my 100th game which ran along the ground and I remember when it came up for goal of the year nomination they said that's not one of the better goals because it was was a fluke - which it probably was.

"The goals you remember most are the ones that mean something.

"I've probably looked more fondly on the ones in the prelim finals and the Grand Finals that have helped get you somewhere.''

Geelong football player Steve Johnson at the Taylor Made Performance Lab. Picture: George Salpigtidis

Given we've caught up to the group in front on the 16th tee, he's happy to put golf on hold for a few minutes - he's still only two-over the card - and reflect on his football journey, which has had more ups and downs than most.

"I specifically remember about six or eight years ago we were out on the field and 'Bomber' Thompson was there and we asked him who he thought out of our group of players would play 200 games.

"He said Corey Enright will play 200, Joel Corey, Paul Chapman, James Kelly and Jimmy (Bartel).

"I remember saying to him, `Do you think I will?'

"His reply was: `Well, I'm not too sure. I know you have the potential to, but it's whether your body gets you there, that's the question.'

"I thought to myself, `Geez, he's probably right. I'm going to need to be pretty lucky to get to 200 games'.

"I've always remembered that conversation, which is why 200 games means something to me.''

After breaking both his ankles by jumping off the roof of a pub in 2003, Johnson has had seven operations on his right ankle and one on the left.

At the end of 2006 he was put up for trade, but Collingwood knocked it back because it said his ankles looked like they'd been in a car crash.

In the end his surgeon said he could no longer operate on them and Johnson had to push through the pain.

"I only had one choice. I wasn't going to give up,'' he says. "I certainly did go through a fair bit of pain with them and, at times, it was mentally really challenging, but I always just wanted to play footy.

"I couldn't believe I was in the predicament where my career was on the line around that stage.

"It has sort of made every season and every game I have played since feel a little bit more important than maybe it would have.''

He remarkably didn't have his first full pre-season until 2008. He rates that year and 2009 as the best of his career, although a hip injury on the eve of the finals impacted on his output in the premiership win.

"I played just a couple of weeks after surgery and I did pretty well in the preliminary final, but felt a bit guilty playing the 2009 Grand Final because I couldn't move and then Steven Baker gave me a bit of a touch-up,'' he says.

"It was more like being in a cage match than being in a Grand Final.''

The pair had a long history and the St Kilda defender was hit with a 12-match suspension the following year for whacking Johnson in a fiery re-match.

"I've got no issues with him,'' Johnson said. "I wouldn't say I respected him because I thought he stepped outside the rules a little bit too often, but if there was a player on my team who got inside the opposition player's head or did his job to make his team better, well, I would respect that and that's the way I've looked at it.''

Johnson's recovery from a dislocated knee suffered in the 2011 preliminary final to play a pivotal role in the premiership victory over Collingwood is right at the top of his career achievements.

"That's my most memorable game,'' he says. "I didn't get a heap of the footy, but just the emotion leading up to that game. It was about 'will I play or won't I play? Am I making the right decision?' I didn't want to play poorly after what I did in 2009, so it meant a lot to me to get out there and play, and play pretty well.''

All his teammates ever talk about when asked about Stevie J is, not the trick goals, but this mental strength.

"I've never really been blessed with athletic ability,'' Johnson explains. "But when it comes to running, or whatever it is, I am very competitive so I think that's what has got me to the AFL to start with, just my competitiveness.

"If we were running a cross-country at high-school I would get out in front and just wouldn't let anyone come past me.

"I have got a bit of mental stubbornness so that has probably been my greatest asset. That relates to a lot of challenges I've been faced with through my career.''

Johnson loves playing and watching football. "It is the greatest game on the planet,'' he says.

As a kid his mum and dad would drive him down to the MCG to watch his beloved Collingwood a handful of times each year.

"I would just be glued to my seat watching every bit of play. I'd be watching 50m ahead of the play to see where Nathan Buckley was running or Paul Williams. I guess it has never left me,'' he says.

"I think a lot of AFL players probably get sick of footy and want to go home and just turn away from it, whereas I am a little bit the opposite.

"I don't mind sitting down to watch Melbourne and GWS or whoever it is. For some reason it's ingrained in me.

"I have a SuperCoach team and what that does for me is it actually makes you watch the player that you've got picked in your side.

`" watch them really closely and you learn how they get their kicks so it's just another learning tool.''

His captain? "Gazza (Gary Ablett). I left him out the last few years, but I said `Never again' and I've stuck by that, which I'm happy about.''

On his former teammate, Johnson says: "I never thought he would get as good as what he has got, but now I still don't think we have seen the best of him. He is incredible and one day I think he will go down as one of the greatest players of all-time.''

Peter Daicos was his idol growing up, but he calls Buckley the best player he has seen.

He says former teammate Matthew Scarlett should go down as one of the greatest defenders in history, while Scott Pendlebury is another current player he enjoys watching play.

He is glowing of Joel Selwood and is still moved by the skipper's performance against Sydney two weeks ago. "He actually inspired me to just shake my head and think this bloke is a great leader.

``He is someone everyone in the competition can look up to and see how you're supposed to attack a contest.''

On Geelong's 5-0 start and refusal to go away as a premiership threat, Johnson calls for caution, although warns: "We do think we'll play better footy towards the end of the year.''

He is loving the new freedom of playing more through the midfield this season, with his body the best it has been for some time.

At 29, he doesn't feel like the end is near despite his current contract running out next year.

Coaching appeals to him down the track but for now he is enjoying fatherhood - his son Archie was born last year - and looking after his two poodles, although what has become a yearly request for a photo with his dogs is again politely declined.

"If I get to 300 games, I'll bring out the poodles,'' he says.

And with that he's out of the cart and back on the tee.

The wind chill factor has risen significantly during the 20-minute chat and he's cooled down, which results in his first wayward drive of the round.

Don't worry. He found it.

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