Two taken to hospital after suburban footy brawl

Updated May 28, 2012 11:32:13

A football league in Melbourne's north is investigating a brawl at the weekend that reportedly saw two people taken to hospital.

The fight broke out in the under-17s match in the Northern Football League (NFL), between Lalor and the Lalor Stars.

The police helicopter was called in to fly over the melee but no arrests were made.

The NFL says it is concerned and disappointed by allegations about the fight.

Tags: crime, antisocial-behaviour, australian-football-league, lalor-3075

First posted May 28, 2012 11:32:13

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Akermanis robbed while playing footy

Cassandra Bedwell

Updated May 15, 2012 08:08:06

Former AFL player Jason Akermanis was among several people robbed during a football game in southern New South Wales at the weekend.

The thieves went through several bags in the change rooms while Akermanis was playing for the Murray Magpies in Albury on Saturday.

He had his mobile phone and wedding ring stolen.

Umpire Greg Bulman was also robbed.

The thieves made off with his car and his wallet which contained $750.

"I can replace the money and (was) lucky I got my car back and it was in good condition," he said.

"All they did was drive it to Red Rooster, which is in Lavington, and just parked it in a car park there and left it there."

Tags: armed-robbery, australian-football-league, albury-2640

First posted May 14, 2012 13:42:48

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Hall joins Fev in country footy

Updated May 10, 2012 12:42:20

Former AFL forward Barry Hall is pulling on the boots again to play football in country Victoria.

Hall has been recruited by Wangaratta Rovers in the second major signing for the Ovens and Murray League this season.

Former Carlton and Brisbane forward Brendan Fevola is playing for Yarrawonga Pigeons.

Wangaratta coach Mick Caruso says he is confident Hall will be just as big a drawcard as Fevola.

"He'll play at least three games possibly four games," he said.

"Of course they will be all home games for us in the back end of the season, if we are lucky enough to make the finals we would be expecting that a lot of people would come to watch Barry Hall play, absolutely."

Hall played 289 matches for St Kilda, Sydney and Western Bulldogs, booting 746 goals.

Tags: australian-football-league, sport, footscray-3011

First posted May 10, 2012 12:42:20

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Footy codes hail Optus decision

Luke Pentony

Updated April 27, 2012 14:17:59

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou says the Federal Court's ruling that Optus has breached copyright law in broadcasting near live AFL and NRL matches is a victory for Australian sport.

The full bench of the Federal Court of Appeal granted an appeal this morning launched by the AFL, NRL and Telstra against a previous decision that had allowed Optus to broadcast near live matches on its TV Now service.

The Federal Court ruling, handed down in February, had allowed Optus users to watch AFL and NRL fixtures via video streams on mobile devices as close to two minutes behind the live TV broadcast.

The court had ruled that it was the user, as the subscriber, and not Optus who was responsible for streaming the coverage.

The AFL and NRL appealed the decision, arguing it devalued their broadcast rights details. Telstra also appealed, in light of the fact it paid more than $150 million for the right to stream AFL matches on the internet.

The Federal Court of Appeal stated today it was Optus, as well as the user, who was responsible for the recording of matches and therefore it had breached copyright law.

Demetriou says it is not just the AFL who has walked away as a winner following the Federal Court's decision.

"The decision was unanimous, it was clear-cut," he said.

"It was a relief, not just for the AFL but I'm sure for all sporting codes, who rely heavily on these rights and the revenue which come from these rights, which we all plough back into our codes.

"Whether that [is] through the codes itself, facilities, grassroots programs, development. These are significant revenues, which we all rely on and I think today's decision is certainly a win for all sports in this country."

Demetriou feels the AFL is vindicated by today's decision, although he admits the league had experienced some anxious moments.

"The fact we've had to go through two court cases with considerable expense hasn't been a pleasant time," he said.

"The uncertainty hasn't been pleasant, but we were always confident that this decision would come down today because we believe we were right.

"We believe it protects content holders, we believe the copyright act has now withstood this action by Optus and I think we can all move forward and continue to invest in our codes."

Demetriou says Optus' behaviour was "reprehensible" and he has called on the telecommunications rival to "concentrate on their core business".

"I've said previously that I thought Optus' behaviour was unethical, I thought it was improper, inappropriate," he said.

"They've never engaged with the AFL in relation to our rights. I don't plan in the future that they would and it will be a long time before we speak to Optus."

Demetriou says Optus will have think "very carefully about challenging the decision", suggesting an appeal will prove "costly".

Optus spokeswoman Clare Gill says her organisation may proceed with an appeal to the High Court.

"We have to look at all our options, which will include an appeal," she said.

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has also welcomed today's ruling, as it looks to negotiate its next broadcast deal and take advantage of its solid TV ratings.

"We have always believed there was a clear principle in play here: that the sports are entitled to control who shows their events and who profits from those events," ARLC chief executive David Gallop said in a statement.

"Companies should not be able to profit from our content without investing in the sport itself."

Tags: australian-football-league, sport, rugby-league, nrl, australia

First posted April 27, 2012 13:29:06

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St Marys wants AFL review of blanket footy bans

By Jano Gibson

Updated January 24, 2012 18:17:06

St Marys Northern Territory Football League club will ask the AFL to review a rule that almost brought the career of one of its stars to an end.

Three time AFL premiership player Darryl White was facing a life ban after being suspended for more than the maximum 15 weeks over the course of his career.

White successfully challenged the ban and will be free to play in this weekend's NTFL game against Southern Districts.

But club president Shaun Hardy says the 15-week rule should take into account how long a player has been involved in the game.

"We think that the intent of the policy is very clear and unquestionable," he said.

"However, not taking into account the number of games played and not taking into account the nature of offences needs to be looked at.

"In our submission, we put forward exceptional circumstances in Darryl's case.

"This should not be seen as a blanket submission that covers every case."

White has played more than 900 games with AFL-affiliated clubs over his long career.

Tags: australian-football-league, sports-organisations, regional, darwin-0800, melbourne-3000, brisbane-4000

First posted January 24, 2012 18:17:06

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Footy talks stalled

Updated December 20, 2011 21:03:07

The ABC is finalising a deal to continue televising state league football in Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria.

But negotiations with the Tasmanian state league remain deadlocked.

The ABC has been negotiating with state leagues to continue televising football for the next two years.

The broadcaster wants leagues to contribute more money towards the coverage and is also looking to reduce travel costs.

Talks in Tasmania broke down last month with the state league insisting it couldn't afford to meet the ABC's demands for an extra $50,000 a season.

AFL Tasmania has since written to clubs asking them to help cover the extra costs.

Tags: australian-football-league, tas

First posted December 20, 2011 20:43:00

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Sheedy casts eagle eye over NT footy talent

Tom Nightingale

Updated October 25, 2011 12:56:22

The AFL's newest club is looking to play a pre-season match in the Northern Territory.

Greater Western Sydney coach Kevin Sheedy visited Alice Springs yesterday and says the club wants to play a match in Alice Springs or Darwin within the next three years.

The club has already listed Curtly Hampton from Alice Springs, and has a a priority recruiting zone across the Territory.

Sheedy also said the club was looking at eight Territory juniors as possible picks in next month's draft.

It has to select up to 14 more players in the national draft, in preparation for its first AFL season next year.

Sheedy said Top End player Jed Anderson is high in draft considerations.

He says the club is also looking at two Alice Springs players, Louis Egger and Gibson Turner.

"It seems to be that when the NT actually get one, they are gold, like the [Michael] Longs and, obviously, Andrew McLeod and [Cyril] Rioli," he said.

"They are terrific players.

"There is a lot of quality when the players do come out."

Tags: australian-football-league, sports-organisations, youth, alice-springs-0870, darwin-0800, sydney-2000

First posted October 25, 2011 12:56:22

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TSL Footy Turmoil

Published:Friday, September 23, 2011 7:30 AESTExpires:Thursday, December 22, 2011 7:30 AEST

At the end of the season opinion is divided on how the competition is travelling, and where it is headed.

Tags: community-and-society, australian-football-league, tas, burnie-7320, launceston-7250

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South East Footy: Top teams remain dominant in KNT

The KNT Football League were the only teams on the scoreboards after a series of byes around the region over the weekend except for an indigenous recognition match between Heywood and Portland for WB.

Kowree Naracoorte Tatiara Football League

Kybybolite vs Kingston

Kybybolite had no trouble with winless Kingston in KNT football. They worked their way to a 34 point lead by quarter time and steadily increased it from there. Kingston never threatened but at least they kept the margin below 100 points. Kyby wasted plenty of chances in front of goal as the game petered out in the last quarter with Kyby up by 87 points. On-ballers Ryan Woite, Ray Jaensch and Dave Arnold did most of the damage and Sam McCracken booted 5 goals for Kyby. Ben Warner and the consistent Kirby Scott battled hard for Kingston.

Padthaway vs Bordertown

Padthaway took control of the game against Bordertown with a seven goal burst in the second-quarter. Key goal-kickers Matt Lampard and Brendon Moon provided good targets with 5 goals a piece. The Lions went further ahead in the second-half despite a greater effort from the Roosters through Crilly and Cammarano. The Lions added 6 goals in the last quarter to win easily by 45 points. Jason Degabriele continued his good form to be best a-field ahead of Darren Francis, Moon and Aaron Wanders. Mick Crilly with 4 goals, Cammarano and Jamie Grosser stood out for Bordertown.

Keith vs Lucindale

Keith with some good recent form looked a serious threat to Lucindale but after an even first-quarter they were hardly sighted. Lucindale with a greater spread of talent led by powerful bigman Mark Snowball charged away in the second-quarter to lead by 48 points at the main break. Stan Freeman and Tim Walsh were creating havoc around goals and both finished with 6 goals. Keith offered only token resistance and struggled to get the ball forward as Lucindale dominated around the mid-field through the class of Ryan McInerney, Josh Walker also relished the chance to move forward and he kicked 3 goals as well. Lucindale finished off with a 9 goal last quarter as Keith tumbled to a 102 point thrashing.

Naracoorte vs Mundulla

Naracoorte quickly took control over Mundulla when they held a 5 goal lead at quarter time. They put great pressure on the Moots who turned the ball over too easily and the quality players such as Mitch Hartree, Michael Childs and Kane Jericho made them pay. Mundulla battled hard in the second-quarter but still couldn't contain Naracoorte who had the best ruckman with Craig Beggs on top at the stoppages. A strong third-quarter by Mundulla brought the game alive and Ben Douglas booted 3 goals in a solo effort and Jake McGrice and Boyd Packer lifted around the forward line. Mundulla closed to within 3 goals but Naracoorte saw of the challenge with a powerful last-quarter when their class players again took control and raced away to win by 37 points even after Boyd Packer took a screamer to lift his side. Tom Prebble was best for Naracoorte ahead of Childs, Jericho and Hartree. Mundulla were valiant to the end but can't afford to give big starts to top teams. McGrice, veteran Nick Davis and Packer were best for Mundulla.

Western Border Football League

Heywood vs Portland

The only game played in WB footy was the Indigenous Recognition game between Heywood and Portland. It was a mis-match on form but Heywood who could have been crushed by 40 goals made Portland work for the win. They maybe winless but Heywood always give a bit extra against rival Portland. Marcus England was best in another hard-running, kick-winning display, Jason Saunders also played well and mobile ruckman Cam Mather controlled the aerial duels for Portland who still won easily by 118 points. The Bens, Millard and Nash stood out for Heywood and Tyson Lovett-Murray battled stoutly to the finish.

With Tash Impey

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891 Footy Tipping - Round 16

ROUND 16: (Team selected in red)

Peter Walsh last round: 3 Total: 81

West Coast v Geelong
Hawthorn v Brisbane
Gold Coast v Sydney
Essendon v Richmond
Collingwood v North Melbourne
Port Adelaide v St Kilda
Western Bulldogs v Carlton
bye: Adelaide, Fremantle, Melbourne

Roger Wills last round: 5 Total: 88

West Coast v Geelong
Hawthorn v Brisbane
Gold Coast v Sydney
Essendon v Richmond
Collingwood v North Melbourne
Port Adelaide v St Kilda
Western Bulldogs v Carlton
bye: Adelaide, Fremantle, Melbourne

Rod Jameson last round: 4 Total: 77

West Coast v Geelong
Hawthorn v Brisbane
Gold Coast v Sydney
Essendon v Richmond
Collingwood v North Melbourne
Port Adelaide v St Kilda
Western Bulldogs v Carlton
bye: Adelaide, Fremantle, Melbourne

Stephen Williams last round: 5 Total: 83

West Coast v Geelong
Hawthorn v Brisbane
Gold Coast v Sydney
Essendon v Richmond
Collingwood v North Melbourne
Port Adelaide v St Kilda
Western Bulldogs v Carlton
bye: Adelaide, Fremantle, Melbourne

Kris Massie last round: 5 Total: 79

West Coast v Geelong
Hawthorn v Brisbane
Gold Coast v Sydney
Essendon v Richmond
Collingwood v North Melbourne
Port Adelaide v St Kilda
Western Bulldogs v Carlton
bye: Adelaide, Fremantle, Melbourne

Nathan Eagleton last round: 5 Total: 79

West Coast v Geelong
Hawthorn v Brisbane
Gold Coast v Sydney
Essendon v Richmond
Collingwood v North Melbourne
Port Adelaide v St Kilda
Western Bulldogs v Carlton
bye: Adelaide, Fremantle, Melbourne

Michael Phillipou last round: 5 Total: 81

West Coast v Geelong
Hawthorn v Brisbane
Gold Coast v Sydney
Essendon v Richmond
Collingwood v North Melbourne
Port Adelaide v St Kilda
Western Bulldogs v Carlton
bye: Adelaide, Fremantle, Melbourne

Coco the Guinea Pig last round: 5 Total: 83

West Coast v Geelong
Hawthorn v Brisbane
Gold Coast v Sydney
Essendon v Richmond
Collingwood v North Melbourne
Port Adelaide v St Kilda
Western Bulldogs v Carlton
bye: Adelaide, Fremantle, Melbourne

Swinburne Computer last round: 6 Total: 87

West Coast v Geelong
Hawthorn v Brisbane
Gold Coast v Sydney
Essendon v Richmond
Collingwood v North Melbourne
Port Adelaide v St Kilda
Western Bulldogs v Carlton
bye: Adelaide, Fremantle, Melbourne

891 All Stars - Spence Denny last round (Ashley Walsh): 4 Total: 85

West Coast v Geelong
Hawthorn v Brisbane
Gold Coast v Sydney
Essendon v Richmond
Collingwood v North Melbourne
Port Adelaide v St Kilda
Western Bulldogs v Carlton
bye: Adelaide, Fremantle, Melbourne

** unless a draw is selected, a drawn match will be awarded no point

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An anxious mum, a newborn son and the biggest footy game of his life

For the last week Gold Coast Suns defender Rex Liddy's been getting more calls than usual from his mum and dad.

"They call me up all the time," the footballer says laughing,

It may not seem all that odd but this week is a big one for the Liddy household.

Together, Rex's mum, dad and aunty will travel five hours by car from the remote community of Hopevale to Cairns to see their boy play on Saturday against the Richmond Tigers.

It might seem like a fair trek but for the Liddy clan, it is effectively a home game.

Rex says getting his family to the game isn't the problem though. Reassuring his anxious parents that he'll be in the side, however, is quickly becoming a full time job.

"They're always asking me, 'Are you in the team?' and I've got to tell 'em every five minutes that I am playing," he says, seemingly only half-joking.

But the promising young player admits it's a good problem to have and as the first ever AFL footballer to hail from Cape York in Far North Queensland, he says he understands the expectation and excitement from his community.

"I never thought I'd be here [in the AFL] and I'm just really excited to play," he says. "I feel like a role model to the young kids up there and I'm tellin' 'em that you not only can you make it in the NRL playing rugby league but you can make it in other sports as well.

Off the field Rex is a role model to more than just aspiring young footballers after welcoming his first born son, Jarra into the world only a month ago.

The baby, he says, is a true blessing.

"Mate, it's a miracle I reckon. It's amazing picking a baby up and knowing it's yours," he says. "I couldn't believe he was here after all those months. It's wonderful having him around."

Queensland State Indigenous Director, Rick Hanlon, who mentored Rex as a junior, says his young prodigy always endears himself to others.

"Rexy's just got that likeable character about him," he says. "He's got an aura about him and his leadership."

"People gravitate to him. There's an expectation about him. He's super talented and he's just a really nice kid with a great family that support him to the max."

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Cousins returns to country footy

Posted July 6, 2011 13:22:00

Ben Cousins will make a return to Australian rules when he plays for country Victorian club Romsey this season.

Cousins has signed to play at least one match with the Redbacks, who are top of the ladder in the Riddell District Football League, north of Melbourne.

The club hopes he will play at least two home and away matches and up to four finals.

The Brownlow medallist will play at the earliest in the club's next home match on July 23.

Romsey Football Club vice-president Alan Lever says the town is abuzz with the news.

"The reaction has been phenomenal. Just not only around the club," he said.

"It's about our little town and all that sort of stuff.

"It's abuzz at the moment with everyone talking about it and excited about the day.

"So everyone's asking the same question - what day's it going to be?"

Tags: sport, australian-football-league, vic, romsey-3434

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South East Footy: Undefeated teams humbled

Sweating it out on football grounds around the region this weekend some surprising wins and standout players saw a few big scores brought home despite some trying weather conditions.

Kowree Naracoorte Tatiara Football League (KNT)

Mundulla vs Padthaway

Mundulla returned to the winners list when they took control of their game against Padthaway in the second half. The Lions had looked a better side early and held a 14 pt lead at the long break. Mundulla kept Padthaway goal-less in the third term and raced to a 20 pt lead with Jason Milligan back from injury leading the way in ruck. Sam Luckett around the packs benefited from the ruck dominance and Mundulla kept the momentum in the last qtr with 5 more goals to win convincingly by 37 pts. Boyd Packer, 4 goals and Grady Obst also played well for Mundulla. Matt Dean and co-defender Darren Francis battled hard for the Lions but were overwhelmed in the end.

Kybybolite vs Keith

Kybybolite was another team to win after a humiliating loss last week but not without a battle. Very little separated the Keith Crows and Kyby at half time with Kyby in front by just 7 pts. Slowly Kyby increased its lead in the third quarter with strong work from Ray Jaensch, Chris Hanley at half-forward. Mark Slotegraaf was playing a fine captain's game around the mid-field as well for Kyby. Keith had one last chance with a quarter to go but didn't have enough good players to do it. Jon Wright across the centre, Nick Hunt in defence and James McEntee , 5 goals tried hard but the Crows fell 18 pts short.

Border Districts vs Naracoorte

Border Districts pulled off the biggest upset of the year when they blitzed undefeated Naracoorte after half time. The Eagles led narrowly in the first half but just when most spectators expected Naracoorte to burst clear the opposite happened. Borders charged away with 6 goals to one in the third term and held a match-winning 35 pt lead. Paul Smith, 9 goals and Clint Barras 6 were creating havoc for the Demon defenders and Borders rubbed salt into the wounds with another 6 goals in the last quarter to win by 64 pts and leave the tiny town of Frances fairly rocking for the best win Borders have had in a long time. Sean King at half-forward and Nick Tarca were in everything for Borders. Naracoorte were stunned by the loss. Ever reliable Mitch Hartree, Michael Childs and Matt Willison were the Demons best.

Kingston vs Bordertown

Kingston climbed out of the grave to nearly snatch their first win in 2011. The Saints led early only to see Bordertown charge away in a dominant second quarter and lead by 30 pts. Bordertown were still going strongly in the third quarter but Kingston were showing plenty of resolve and booted 7 goals to trail by 11 pts with a quarter to play. Both sides went goal for goal in the last quarter but it was Bordertown who got a last gasp win by 3 pts. Jamie Grosser a forward lifeline for Bordertown booted 7 goals, Clint Williams played strongly across half forward and Kane Cuthbertson was creative. Kingston's best were Ben Warner in defence, Nathan Daniels up forward with 5 goals and Jacob Brown.

Lucindale vs Kaniva-Leeor United

Lucindale, another undefeated team were always under siege from a resurgent Kaniva-Leeor United. Whenever Lucindale threatened to break away the consistent Shain Vivian, Ash Baxter or Dylan Williams would conjur a goal. KLU's straighter kicking kept them in front through the third quarter whilst their defenders forced errors on the Lucindale forward line. KLU had played Lucindale to a standstill and slammed on 6 last quarter goals to win by 38 pts, their most impressive win of the season. Neil Reeve starred in the ruck for KLU, Williams, Shane Dodson and Brad McCabe were strong contributors. Ryan McInerney was again best for Lucindale, Tim Walsh and consistent Kyle Press never stopped trying.

Western Border Football League (WB)

East Gambier vs Portland

East Gambier took the game right up to Portland in WB footy and only trailed by a point at half time. East tackled strongly and had plenty of willing workers to keep the game in the balance in an entertaining first half. Portland always looked dangerous however with Jarrod Hayse giving his opponent a torrid time at full forward with only his inaccuracy letting him down. Portland slowly got on top in the third quarter with Marcus England winning kicks all over the ground and Cam Mather doing well on the ball and across half-back. East lacked the depth of Portland and although they battled hard they couldn't hold Portland out. The Victorian Tigers had a stack of chances and wasted many but they won by 21 pts after a couple of late East goals. Marcus England, Cam Mather and a fitter Heath Brown in ruck were Portland's best. Shaun Phillips used his pace to break many attacks for East across half-back, on-baller Chris Anderson and Matt Roscow were East's best.

North Gambier vs Hamilton

North Gambier outplayed a dispirited Hamilton after a scrappy first half. Displaying better teamwork and foot-skills North booted 5 goals to take a 27 pt lead at three-quarter time. North dominated play in the final term with a further 6 goals after more constructive forward play to win by 46 pts. Cam Campbell at half-back starred for North, Pat Perry in the centre and Anthony Kilsby both had excellent games. Jesse Hawkins was best for Hamilton ahead of Dylan Gunning and Weston but they lacked plenty in the help department.

South Gambier vs Millicent

South Gambier had a tough battle against the improving Millicent. South led early but Millicent wasted plenty of chances and trailed by 2 pts at quarter-time. South got moving before half time through perpetual motion men Tim Stringer and Simon Berkefeld to hold a 27 pt lead. Millicent fought back strongly and reached the lead briefly late in the third quarter but South regained it by 5 pts. The game was anybody's and Millicent grabbed the lead again in the last quarter but South steadied with youngsters Jed Mullen and Brodie Foster playing well and kicked away late in the game to win by 35 pts. Defenders Matt Bryant, Reece Duncan and Brad Tilley played strongly to keep Millicent alive for most of the day but ran out of legs at the end.

West Gambier vs Casterton

West Gambier appeared headed for an easy win over lowly Casterton when they led easily at half and three-quarter time. Casterton who had battled hard but lacked the class of West then produced a 9 goal last quarter to liven up the game and West were forced to lift the tempo, which they did with 5 goals but it was a reality check to win by 36 pts. Mercurial forward Jarrod Ryan booted 8 goals but speedy little man Al Kennedy was best along with Luke Davey and Josh Jones for West. Matt Killey, Ben Currie and the classy Brad Vassal played for the Cats.

Heywood vs Imperials

Winless Heywood kept Imperials goal-less in the first quarter but any thoughts of an upset vanished when Imps raced on 6 goals to nil and lead by 19 pts at half time. Imps powered away after that and recorded a solid 69 pt win. Heywood were not disgraced and battled it out to the end. Hugh Douglas booted 8 goals for Imps and Jason McIntosh was best afield in the ruck and booted 5 goals. Ben Millard and youngster Steve Keiller tried hard for Heywood.

Mid South East Football League (MSE)

Hatherleigh vs Nangwarry

Hatherleigh continued their improvement in MSE with an easy 116 pt win over bottom placed Nangwarry. Matt Faulkner provided the highlight with 13 goals for Hatherleigh who were untroubled from quarter-time onwards.

Glencoe vs Tantanoola

Glencoe had a solid 50 pt win against Tantanoola after a 9 goal burst in the third quarter which opened up an 81 pt margin. Glencoe cruised in the last qtr as Tant gained some pride with 6 goals. Josh Wilson, Matt Sinkunas and Zac Cocks were best for Glencoe whilst Cameron Saint, veteran Jason Rowe and Lyndon Smith played well for Tant.

Mt Burr vs Kalangadoo

Undefeated Mt Burr savaged a devestated Kalangadoo by 184 pts outlined further their invincible status. The Mozzies tore great chunks out of the Kalangadoo backline and led by 105 pts at half-time. Kalangadoo barely offered any resistance and Mt Burr slammed on another 11 goals in the last term. Coach Mark Kruger and forward Jack Gregory booted 8 goals each for the Mozzies who had players lining up for a shot at goal. Peter Agnew, veterans Scott Bevan and Matt Leslie were best but met little opposition. Kalangadoo, well they were just smashed!

Robe vs Kongorong

Robe recorded a hard working 32 pt win over Kongorong who let the game slip away in the second quarter. Both teams scored 8 goals after half-time but the damage had been done. Bigman Dylan Coxon was best on ground for Robe, Jaryd Dawson, Ben Jess and high flying Stuart Cooper played well.

with Tash Impey

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Port fade in the wet at Footy Park

Carlton arrested a sluggish first half performance to show its class with a 62-point belting of Port Adelaide at Football Park on Sunday evening.

The Blues trailed by three points at the long break before holding the Power to just one goal in the second half to skip to a convincing 16.15 (111) to 7.7 (49) victory.

Andrew Walker booted a career-best six goal straight as Carlton consolidated fourth position on the ladder.

Walker was a constant attacking threat while small forward Jeff Gartlett booted four majors as Carlton kicked 11 goals after half-time to steamroll Port.

The struggling Power slumped to their ninth loss from 11 matches after their crafty utility Justin Westhoff kicked three goals in the first term to give his side an early advantage.

But Walker bettered that feat, keeping the visitors in the contest and kicking his fourth goal just 17 minutes into the second term.

"If he wasn't playing tonight I don't think we would have scored in the first half," Carlton's Bryce Gibbs told Grandstand.

"He has such a great work rate and he really runs his opponents off their legs... He is a great asset for us up in the forward line."

Gibbs also credited the work of Carlton's small forward in Garlett and Eddie Betts after a quiet start to the game.

"They only need a couple of opportunities to make the most of it, they do that very well," he said.

"They work well together and when they are running around doing their flashy things it's pretty special to watch."

Carlton kicked just five goals in a grinding first half, but a late Betts major pulled the visitors within three points of the fast starting Port at the main break.

Port's half-time lead was heartening for the Power, in a week when the AFL became the club's financial master due to a cash crisis.

But their on-field woes continued when outclassed by Carlton in the third term.

The Blues, sparked by prolific ball winners Marc Murphy and Heath Scotland, who were both superb all game, booted four goals to one for a 16-point buffer at the last change.

The burst seemingly sapped Port's spirit and the home side remained scoreless in the last quarter as a clinical Carlton sealed its their seventh win of the season.

FINAL SCORES

Blues: 16.16 (111) - A Walker 6, J Garlett 4, E Betts 2, C Yarran, D Ellard, M Murphy, M Robinson.

Power: 7.7 (49) - J Westhoff 3, D Motlop, J Schulz, M Broadbent, T Boak.

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Footy betting competition called into question

Updated June 2, 2011 08:51:00

Independent Senator Nick Xenophon has criticised a Collingwood Football Club promotion encouraging supporters to bet.

The club has launched a competition with a betting agency, giving a fan the chance to sit in the coaches box.

Supporters must make a minimum $5 bet in order to go into the draw to win the prize.

Senator Xenophon says the promotion is irresponsible.

"The reason why gambling is regulated, legislated for, is because there's an acknowledgment that harm can be caused. And this sort of thing is very much in your face," he told ABC Local Radio.

"There's a question whether it goes beyond the sorts of things that sports betting agencies are allowed to do."

A national churches group has joined the criticism.

Tim Costello, from the National Churches Gambling Taskforce says the AFL or Collingwood need to apologise for the promotion.

"Suddenly they've heard the community concern about sports betting overtaking football and said we're going to respond and then are offering lures and inducements to open TAB sports betting accounts," he said.

"You can't talk out of both sides of your mouth."

Tags: gambling, federal-government, federal-state-issues, australian-football-league, adelaide-5000, melbourne-3000

First posted June 2, 2011 08:25:00

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Government not hopping to footy decision

Updated May 31, 2011 08:47:00

The Tasmanian Government has delayed its decision on AFL matches at Bellerive Oval until next week.

The Premier, Lara Giddings, says Cabinet must take its time on whether to pay $500,000 for two North Melbourne games a year over the next three years.

In a statement, Ms Giddings says Tasmanians need to be assured that all factors in the debate are being considered in the face of the state's tough budget situation.

The AFL says the delay has not jeopardised the plan for North Melbourne to play at Bellerive.

Last week the League warned a decision is needed before the end of this week, because it is already planning next year's roster.

An AFL spokesman says it has already been been notified by the Government about the delay which is unlikely to put the deal in danger.

The plan would cost taxpayers about $500,000 a year for North Melbourne to play two games at Bellerive.

Local councils and business are contributing another $500,000.

Tasmania's two Greens ministers say the spending can not be justified given the budget black hole.

Southern councils can not understand why Cabinet has deferred debate.

The councils and businesses are trying to raise the money for the three-year deal and the delayed decision has councils fuming.

The Brighton Mayor, Tony Foster, says cabinet has had proof for months about the deal's economic benefits.

"It's the bargain of the century, I can not understand what is going on in Cabinet," he said.

Others have welcomed the delay.

The chairman of Launceston's York Park, Robin McKendrick, hopes it is evidence the Government will not support the deal.

"Tasmania just cannot afford to duplicate."

Tags: government-and-politics, the-budget, sport, australian-football-league, programs-and-initiatives, tas, bellerive-7018, melbourne-3000

First posted May 30, 2011 16:45:00

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891 Footy Tipping - Round 10

ROUND 10: (Team selected in red)

Peter Walsh last round: 5 Total: 47

Melbourne v Carlton
North Melbourne v Sydney
Fremantle v St Kilda
Gold Coast v Geelong
Richmond v Port Adelaide
Adelaide v Brisbane
Collingwood v West Coast
Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn
bye: Essendon

Roger Wills last round: 6 Total: 52

Melbourne v Carlton
North Melbourne v Sydney
Fremantle v St Kilda
Gold Coast v Geelong
Richmond v Port Adelaide
Adelaide v Brisbane
Collingwood v West Coast
Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn
bye: Essendon

Rod Jameson last round: 4 Total: 46

Melbourne v Carlton
North Melbourne v Sydney
Fremantle v St Kilda
Gold Coast v Geelong
Richmond v Port Adelaide
Adelaide v Brisbane
Collingwood v West Coast
Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn
bye: Essendon

Stephen Williams last round: 5 Total: 47

Melbourne v Carlton
North Melbourne v Sydney
Fremantle v St Kilda
Gold Coast v Geelong
Richmond v Port Adelaide
Adelaide v Brisbane
Collingwood v West Coast
Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn
bye: Essendon

Kris Massie last round: 4 Total: 45

Melbourne v Carlton
North Melbourne v Sydney
Fremantle v St Kilda
Gold Coast v Geelong
Richmond v Port Adelaide
Adelaide v Brisbane
Collingwood v West Coast
Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn
bye: Essendon

Nathan Eagleton last round: 5 Total: 45

Melbourne v Carlton
North Melbourne v Sydney
Fremantle v St Kilda
Gold Coast v Geelong
Richmond v Port Adelaide
Adelaide v Brisbane
Collingwood v West Coast
Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn
bye: Essendon

Michael Phillipou last round: 5 Total: 45

Melbourne v Carlton
North Melbourne v Sydney
Fremantle v St Kilda
Gold Coast v Geelong
Richmond v Port Adelaide
Adelaide v Brisbane
Collingwood v West Coast
Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn
bye: Essendon

Coco the Guinea Pig last round: 7 Total: 47

Melbourne v Carlton
North Melbourne v Sydney
Fremantle v St Kilda
Gold Coast v Geelong
Richmond v Port Adelaide
Adelaide v Brisbane
Collingwood v West Coast
Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn
bye: Essendon

Swinburne Computer last round: 5 Total: 47

Melbourne v Carlton
North Melbourne v Sydney
Fremantle v St Kilda
Gold Coast v Geelong
Richmond v Port Adelaide
Adelaide v Brisbane
Collingwood v West Coast
Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn
bye: Essendon

891 All Stars - Ian Henschke last round (Matthew Abraham): 6 Total: 50

Melbourne v Carlton
North Melbourne v Sydney
Fremantle v St Kilda
Gold Coast v Geelong
Richmond v Port Adelaide
Adelaide v Brisbane
Collingwood v West Coast
Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn
bye: Essendon

** unless a draw is selected, a drawn match will be awarded no point

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Crunch time looming for Pt Adelaide footy club

The SANFL adviser appointed to Port Adelaide Football Club board, John Irving, has resigned.

There are reports the League could take over the debt-ridden club.

The SANFL is said to have no cash reserves to let it keep underwriting the football club.

The Power says it is continuing to work with the SANFL.

In a statement, the club says it expects to report a significant financial turnaround of at least $2 million in 2011.

Former development coach with the Power and former SANFL Magpies player and coach Stephen Williams concedes it is a difficult time.

"If the Adelaide [Crows] footy club can't make money in Adelaide how is Port Adelaide going to make it?" he said.

"And the [Adelaide Oval] stadium deal is just not favourable to both clubs.

"Football certainly brings a lot of money to the SANFL in Adelaide but it goes straight to the SANFL and then they give it back to Port Adelaide."

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Qld Footy Wrap

Published:Monday, May 30, 2011 6:06 AESTExpires:Sunday, August 28, 2011 6:06 AEST

Grandstand's Alister Nicholson looks back at the weekend that was for the Queensland teams in the NRL, Super Rugby and AFL.

Tags: sport, australian-football-league, rugby-league, nrl, rugby-union, super-14, australia

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Footy codes move to keep gambling in check

Published:Sunday, May 22, 2011 7:03 AESTExpires:Saturday, August 20, 2011 7:03 AEST

The four Australian football codes have launched an advertising campaign to encourage awareness of the issues associated with gambling in sport.

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Tags: family-and-children, gambling, federal-government, federal-state-issues, advertising, law-crime-and-justice, australian-football-league, rugby-league, rugby-union, football, australia, adelaide-5000, melbourne-3000

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