REPLAY: Dogs v Lions

Adam Cooney finds space against the Bombers. He's a certain starter today. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

4.38pm - Dogs 127 - 59 Lions

THE Western Bulldogs put Brisbane away by 68 points in a commanding display at Etihad Stadium.

Ryan Griffen was the star with 27 disposals in the rout which began with the Dogs kicking the first six goals of the match.

Bulldogs young gun Luke Dahlhaus (corky) was helped off the ground late in the final quarter after copping a knock to the back.

LIVE HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats, commentary and more

Meanwhile, mature-aged recruit Brett Goodes looked at ease in his AFL debut dominating across half-back.

Brisbane had no answers for the Dogs four-quarter onslaught with Pearce Hanley's report and an injury to Matt McGuire adding salt to the Lions' wounds.

4.03pm - Dogs 111 - 56 Lions

BULLDOGS Ryan Griffen and Shaun Higgins snapped a three-goal Brisbane run to hammer the Lions into submission at Etihad Stadium.

The Lions looked to add a bit of respectability on the scoreboard early in the final term but any inroads were quickly erased when Griffen and Higgins snapped back-to-back majors.

It's the Bulldogs first home-and-away win since Round 12 last year when the prevailed against Port Adelaide 95-57.

3.40pm - Dogs 105 - 42 Lions

IT'S a slaughter. The Western Bulldogs are charging towards the top of the AFL table with a commanding 11-goal lead nearing three-quarter time.

The Dogs outscored the hapless Lions six goals to one in a blitz under the roof at Etihad Stadium.

And it only got worse for the Lions when veteran defender Matt McGuire was subbed off with a lower leg injury.

McGuire, plagued by leg problems in recent years, hobbled off the ground during the third quarter.

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He was substituted out of the hammering shortly after with Claye Beams taking his place on the field.

Tom Liberatore, Brett Goodes and stand-in captain Robert Murphy have been the pick of the Dogs.

Tom Rockliff has played a lone-hand for the Lions with 25 disposals.

The Lions were cruelled a goal late in the term when the third umpire deemed Jack Redden's dribbler in the goalsquare touched by a Bulldogs defender.

The goal umpire signalled a goal but it was overturned upstairs despite sketchy footage.

Bulldogs mature-aged recruit Brett Goodes clears from defence against Brisbane at the Etihad Stadium. Picture: Klein Michael Source: Herald Sun

3.22pm Dogs 85 - 36

THE Bulldogs have exploded in the third term kicking three goals to set up a 49-point lead over Brisbane.

Stand-in captain Robert Murphy sparked the surge threading a goal from deep in the forward pocket.

Daniel Giansiracusa made matters worse for the Lions converting a set shot from the goal square after being felled late in a marking contest by Pearce Hanley.

Hanley was reported for the late charge driving his knee into the back of the Dogs veteran.

Liam Jones capped off the dominant 10-minute burst kicking truly from 39m out on a slight angle to crush the Lions.

Lions recruit Stefan Martin cut the margin to 49 points with his first goal in maroon and yellow strips.

2.50pm Dogs 65 - 28 Lions

YOUNG Ayce Cordy has given the Dogs a 37-point buffer at half-time outmarking Lions defender Daniel Merrett in the shadows of the main break.

Cordy (two goals) clunked the strong contested mark at the top of the goal square to set up the buffer with the shell-shocked Lions reeling under the roof at Etihad Stadium.

LIVE HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats, commentary and more

Daniel Rich (four disposals, one goal) has been completely shut down by Dogs tagger Nick Lower while veterans Tory Dickson (two goals), Daniel Giansiracusa (two goals) and boom recruit Brett Goodes run amok forward of centre.

Goodes leads the Dogs with 13 disposals.

Tom Rockliff is the pick of the Lions with 19 disposals including four inside 50s.

2.32pm Dogs 47 - 21 Lions

HIGGINS, Murphy, Giansiracusa... goal! The veteran Dogs combine and moments latter Higgins adds the icing with one of his own.

LIVE HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats, commentary and more

They lead the Lions by a whopping 38 points nearing halftime at Etihad Stadium.

Tom Rockliff aside, the Lions are yet to fire a shot.

2.15pm Dogs 37 - 6 Lions

DANIEL Rich had to wait until the final minute for his first disposal - and it was a behind.

A quarter of total domination has the Western Bulldogs five goals up on NAB Cup premier Brisbane Lions.

SUPERCOACH STARS:

Luke Dahlhaus (42)
Tory Dickson (42)
Daniel Giansiracusa (39)
Ryan Griffen (38)
Adam Cooney (32)

FULL LIST AT LIVE HQ

It started inside the first minute, when Tory Dickson marked and goaled, and peaked when Adam Cooney wound back the clock to load up a magnificent set-shot from the pocket.

That was the Dogs sixth as they continued to smash a flat Lions outfit in the midfield. The Dogs manufactured just five more forward entries but were deadly efficient in attack.

2.08pm Dogs 37 - 5 Lions
THE Dogs kicked five goals from their first seven entries to fully punish the Lions with their midfield dominance. Have the Lions come to play?

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The tackling pressure has been ferocious, and when Brownlow Medallist Adam Cooney drilled the Dogs' sixth they led by 33 points.

Nick Lower has kept Daniel Rich to zero disposals late in the first quarter.

1.55pm Dogs 24 - 4 Lions

GOALS to Tory Dickson, Ayce Cordy, Luke Dahlhaus and Danial Giansiracusa have the Bulldogs firing early in their battle with the Lions.

Dickson ignited the Dogs when he took a clever mark before being awarded a 50m penalty, while the other three majors were all snagged on the run.

Daniel Rich has suffered a quiet start, with shutdown king Nick Lower tagging the high draft pick.

The efficient Dogs jagged four goals from their first six forward 50m entries.

PRE-GAME: BROWNLOW Medallist Adam Cooney will line up for the Western Bulldogs today with first-round draft pick Clay Smith set to start as the substitute at Etihad Stadium.

Cooney was hospitalised last week with a knee infection but trained strongly this week, with the Dogs and Brisbane Lions making no late changes.

LIVE HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats, commentary and more

Ball magnet Claye Beams will start in Brisbane's green vest, with the NAB Cup premiers the heavily-backed favourites.

Today marks All-Australian defender Dale Morris's first game in 595 days after snapping his leg in 2011.

Dogs coach Brendan McCartney said both clubs play a similar brand of football and his side had full respect for the Lions.

"It'll be who can do it the longest and the hardest," he said.

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Corey to miss Hawks clash

Geelong veteran Joel Corey will sit out Monday's clash against Hawthorn. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

GEELONG veteran Joel Corey will sit out the Cats' Easter Monday blockbuster against Hawthorn after an interrupted pre-season.

As revealed in the Panic Room last Friday, Corey is expected to be eased back into the Cats' best 22 following minor setbacks in his preparation.

Meanwhile, Hawthorn is set to unleash young gun Jed Anderson in Monday's clash at the MCG.

The Northern Territory local has been named on the interchange bench alongside Shave Savage, Liam Shiels and defender Ryan Schoenmakers.

Former Olympics aspirant Mark Blicavs will lead the Cats' short-handed rucks division with Trent West starting on the pine.

HAWTHORN

B: J.Gibson, B.Lake, B.Guerra
HB: G.Birchall, B.Stratton, S.Burgoyne
C: I.Smith, S.Mitchell, B.Hill
HF: C.Rioli, L.Franklin, L.Breust
F: J.Gunston, J.Roughead, P.Puopolo
Foll: D.Hale, B.Sewell, J.Lewis
Int: J.Anderson, S.Savage, L.Shiels, R.Schoenmakers
Emerg: M.Bailey, K.Cheney, J.Simpkin

GEELONG

B: J.Rivers, T.Lonergan, C.Enright
HB: T.Hunt, H.Taylor, T.Varcoe
C: A.Mackie, P.Chapman, M.Stokes
HF: J.Murdoch, S.Motlop, B.Smedts
F: J.Podsiadly, T.Hawkins, M.Duncan
Foll: M.Blicavs, J.Selwood, J.Bartel
Int: T.West, J.Caddy, A.Christensen, G.Horlin-Smith
Emerg: J.Corey, J.Walker, J.Stringer

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LIVE: Giants v Swans

All eyes will be on Lachie Whitfield as the top draft pick makes his debut against Sydney. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

4.45pm: Swans 6 - Giants 0

RUCKMAN Mike Pyke has given the Swans the ideal start kicking a goal within 30 seconds of the opening bounce at ANZ Stadium.

The Canadian won soft a hands in the back free kick running with the flight of the ball and made no mistake from the set shot.

The Swans will be out to get their premiership defence off on the right foot after having their colours lowered by the Giants during the NAB Cup.

Giants top draft pick Lachie Whitfield started on the ground.

Adam Treloar has the job on Swans ball magnet Josh Kennedy.

Live HQ: Click for live SuperCoach scores and stats

Meanwhile, Taylor Adams (Giants) and Tony Armstrong (Swans) are the substitutes.

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10 things we learnt last night

Richmond buck poor opening round trend to beat Carlton.

Ty Vickery on a lead. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

Trent Cotchin clears out of the middle. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

DON'T write off Chris Judd, Mick rethinks game plan, Cotchin takes charge and the MCG's magnetic goalposts. Here are 10 things we learnt from Richmond v Carlton.

1. JUDD STILL GOING STRONG

Anyone who thought the former Carlton skipper was a spent force should fast-forward the replay to the 20-minute mark of the third quarter. With the Blues looking for a spark, Judd put on a three-minute master class, kicking two goals and almost snagging a third with a snap that sailed wide. He finished the night with 27 disposals and 14 score involvements, the most on the ground.

2. MAGNETIC POSTS

The goalposts at the Punt Rd end couldn't stay out of the action all night. Three Tigers - Jack Riewoldt, Shane Tuck and Shane Edwards - slammed the footy into the woodwork in the first quarter, then Dennis Armfield did the same after the Blues switched ends. Chris Yarran also hit the post - at the same end - in the fourth quarter and some would argue his running goal in the second brushed the padding as it skidded through. A video review was inconclusive and the goal stood.

LiveHQ: Full match stats, SuperCoach points and more

3. MEET THE REAL BRYCE GIBBS

The 2006 No.1 draft pick has been tagged as an outside player with neat skills, but last night he showed what he could do when thrown into the guts. Gibbs was the top-ranked player on the ground with a huge 150 SuperCoach points from 34 disposals including 16 contested possessions - the equal most in the match with Trent Cotchin. What did Brett Ratten leave him down back for so long?

4. CAPTAIN COTCH

Cotchin showed why the Tigers handed him the captaincy before his 23rd birthday with a match-saving final quarter. Twice Cotchin came from nowhere to intercept what appeared certain Carlton goals and in the dying minutes, with the Tiger lead disappearing and most players out on their feet, he took the responsibility of the behind kick-ins. Richmond needed a bit of luck to get home but the leadership that was lacking in the closes losses last year was there for all to see.

Trent Cotchin clears out of the middle. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

5. MICK BINS GAME PLAN ... BUT FOR HOW LONG?

There has been plenty of discussion over the summer about how the Blues would adapt to Mick Malthouse's long kicking, stick to the boundary game plan. On the evidence last night, the answer was not well. Carlton appeared stagnant and without Travis Cloke to bomb the ball to in attack, the Tigers - notably Jake Batchelor, doing a good Joel Bowden impression in the No.11 jumper - cut off repeated forward forays with easy marks. After halftime Mick released the shackles and let the Blues play the run-and-gun style favoured under Ratten - and they almost pinched an unlikely win. Not that Mick was all that pleased. "By working one way you do rob yourself of some defensive play and we took that gamble so I'm not too sure where I actually sit with that. It got us back in the game, but I'm not 100 per cent sure you can keep having shootouts with sides," he said post-match.

Carlton coach Michael Malthouse talks to his players. Source: Getty Images

6. GREAT GAME, JACK

The reigning Coleman medallist finished with 0.4 for the night but don't be surprised if he earns votes in the Tigers' best-and-fairest award. Damien Hardwick was delighted with Riewoldt's team-first attitude, dragging opponent Michael Jamison - and often one or two other defenders - up the ground and creating space for unlikely heroes Ty Vickery and Luke McGuane. "I think it's one of the best games he's played for 12 months," Hardwick said of Riewoldt. Vickery showed his importance to the Tigers with nine marks and three goals, while McGuane chimed in with two and laid the game-saving tackle on Josh Bootsma in the final 30 seconds - just reward for a player who has been on the end of plenty of beltings in his 93 matches over eight seasons.

Blues say KO'd Robbo will play next week

7. KARATE KID

We're not sure what's in Vickery's DVD collection at home, but after last night we're betting Bruce Lee makes an appearance. Vickery channelled the martial arts legend when he protected himself while waiting for a looping handball on the wing in the first term. With Brock McLean closing rapidly, the Tiger big man extended his leg to basically fly-kick McLean in the face. But there was no free kick and Richmond swept the ball forward.

Picture gallery: All the action from the MCG

8. TEFLON JACKSON

Daniel Jackson has been run down more than once in his AFL career and Tiger fans had a sense of deja vu as Jackson waltzed into the goalsquare early in the third term only for Marc Murphy to latch onto him. But instead of pulling Jackson down, Murphy somehow slid right off allowing Jackson to drill the goal, seemingly oblivious to what had just happened. Won't be one for the "how to tackle" DVD.

Jack Riewoldt flies for a mark. Source: Getty Images

Daniel Jackson breaks a Marc Murphy tackle to kick a goal in the third quarter. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

9. 50-50 CALL

The Blues were mounting a charge in the third quarter before they shot themselves in the foot, giving away goals with consecutive 50m penalties. Michael Jamison was a bit stiff to be penalised for crossing into the protected area as he walked past Luke McGuane after the Tiger marked 45m out. The second 50m was more clear-cut after a filthy Nick Duigan noted his displeasure with a push in the back free kick to Jake King at the top of the goalsquare. Richmond kicked three goals from 50s, with Bachar Houli nailing a long shot in the second term after a late spoil by Shaun Hampson at centre half-back.

10. RIP HOODOO

Richmond's win snapped a nine-match losing streak against Carlton, the longest sequence since the Tigers lost their first 24 clashes to the Blues from 1908-1917. The two teams have played at the MCG in Round 1 every season since 2007 and before last night Richmond had won only one of those matches (2008), losing the other five by an average of 44 points. The next hoodoo on the Tigers' agenda is trying to play finals for the first time in 12 years. Their last September appearance was a preliminary final loss to Brisbane at the Gabba 4207 days ago.
 

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Robbo right for Round 2

Mitch Robinson comes off the MCG after getting knocked out. Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: HWT Image Library

CARLTON hard nut Mitch Robinson is almost certain to play next week, despite being knocked out in the Round 1 loss to Richmond.

Robinson was smashed in a marking contest by Tigers forward Tyrone Vickery in the second quarter and lay motionless on the MCG turf for several seconds.

Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, video, stats and more

But Blues football manager Andrew McKay said the club was confident the midfielder would recover in time to face Collingwood next Sunday.

Richmond v Carlton, MCG, Mitch Robinson comes off the mcg, Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: HWT Image Library

McKay said that Robinson, despite being rendered unconscious, passed a concussion test on the interchange bench not long after.
"He's got to be able to pass the test during the week, but I don't see a problem because he actually pulled up really well even though he was knocked out,'' McKay said.

"He's alright, he's not too bad. The doctors were a bit concerned because he was knocked out. Just the fact he was out of it the doctors ruled him out.

"There was a period of time where he was unconscious and as soon as the docs were aware of that they weren't keen to put him back on.''

Jeremy Laidler will come under consideration next week after being surprisingly overlooked for the Blues' season-opener.

10 things we learnt from Tigers v Blues

McKay confirmed the defender wasn't injured, but may be suffering from a lack of match practice.

"He played the early NAB Cup games with a bit of indifferent form and he's one of the 25 vying for 22 positions next week,'' he said.

"We're in a fortunate position at the moment where most of the guys are fit and raring to go and 'Laids' is a quality player and I'm sure he'll be back in the team at some stage.''

But it's the philosophy rather than the personnel which is causing the club some early headaches.

Tigers say Tyrone time is coming

Malthouse admitted on Thursday night that he was wrestling with finding the right balance between his defensive principles and Carlton's attacking instincts.

"I learned a lot, they'll probably learn a lot. Just the methodology, the things you can do that work and things that don't work and you've got to start to get the balance right,'' Malthouse said.

"By working one way you do rob yourself of some defensive play and we took that gamble so I'm not too sure where I actually sit with that. It got us back in the game, but I'm not 100 per cent sure you can keep having shootouts with sides.''

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The Panic Room: Cooney cured

Matt Windley and Glenn McFarlane name the rookies and left-field picks to give you the SuperCoach edge.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 26: Adam Cooney of the Bulldogs boxes during a Western Bulldogs AFL training session at Whitten Oval on March 26, 2013 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images) Source: HWT Image Library

DOGS fans don't fear, Adam Cooney has made a stunning comeback.

Word out of the Kennel is that Cooney absolutely brained them at Thursday's main training session, just days after coming out of hospital because of an infected knee.

Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, video, stats and more

He was zipping around like he hadn't missed a beat which had been the case throughout the pre-season until the mishap following the final practice match.

At today's open session at Etihad Stadium, Cooney did some cross-training and boxing but don't be alarmed as that's what he does the day before a game given the history with his troublesome knee.

And don't think he will be eased into proceedings tomorrow, watch for him to start either wing or in the middle and play 70-80 per cent game time.

Down Geelong way there are two premiership heroes very much under the microscope - Trent West and Joel Corey.

Cats ruckman Trent West has undergone knee surgery. Picture: Alison Wynd Source: Geelong Advertiser

West had minor knee surgery last month and hasn't played in the pre-season. While he's increased his training loads over the past couple of weeks it would be a very un-Geelong like risk to throw him straight into Round 1 despite the depletion of the club's ruck stocks.

Steeplechaser Mark Blicavs has already been named and expect fellow rookie Josh Walker to be his back-up.

Corey has had a number of minor setbacks over the summer and didn't play in the final practice match. Word has it he's not quite right and will be eased into the season.

SUPERCOACH ALERT:

There are dilemmas everywhere but Collingwood have thrown a couple of curve balls at us by naming upgraded rookies Jack Frost and Sam Dwyer on interchange. Both appeal given we're all desperately seeking cheap defenders (Frost) and forwards (Dwyer - also mid) at the luxury price of $96,200. Frost appeals as the one more likely to get over the three-game mark although don't expect big scores as he's an old-fashioned see-ball hit-ball defender.

Young Collingwood defender Jack Frost at training. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Dwyer's problem is he's a half-forward flanker who is clearly only treading water until Dale Thomas, Andrew Krakouer and Alex Fasolo return from injury which could be as soon as next week.

MONEY MATTERS:

All week we agonised over whether to go for the big upset with the Gold Coast. If ever St Kilda are ripe for the picking it's tomorrow with a shot defence, no Leigh Montagna and playing in the humid conditions at Metricon Stadium.

In the end, one conversation changed my mind when I was reminded that the Saints have torched the Suns by 90-plus on both occasions and Nick Riewoldt loves playing against them. So the tip didn't go the Suns way but the line bet of +22.5 ($1.82) is gold.

St Kilda captain Nick Riewoldt catches his breath. Source: Getty Images

Throw in GWS at +50.5 ($1.90) - because the Swans historically take a while to get up and running - and Geelong ($2.25) to win on Monday and we end up with odds of $7.78.

Hawk Jarryd Roughead joins the panel to provide inside SuperCoach info on the Hawks.

ON NOTICE:

North Melbourne.

The Roos keep saying they want to play with the big boys and be considered a legitimate top eight team. Well, Sunday is a perfect opportunity to do that given they are taking in a full-strength team - minus veteran Brent Harvey only - against an injury-hit Collingwood outfit who they beat by five goals at Etihad when they met in Round 21 last year.

North Melbourne skipper Andrew Swallow is a proven SuperCoach star. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

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Please Explain: Moneyball mayhem

Mark Neeld has overseen a massive turnover of the Demons list. But has it improved? Source: Getty Images

IN the first installment of a weekly series, Glenn McFarlane writes an open letter to a target who needs to be asked the hard questions in footy.

DEAR MELBOURNE,

We know you are only three days out from the start of your 2013 campaign, but we couldn't let the season start without issuing you with our first Please Explain for the year.

Leaving aside the teenagers you were able to pick up via the father-son rule (Jack Viney), the national draft (Jimmy Toumpas) and the trade period (Dom Barry and Jesse Hogan), we've got some serious concerns about your comings and goings since the end of 2012.

You've lost Brent Moloney (Brisbane) and Jared Rivers (Geelong) to free agency; let go Stefan Martin (Brisbane), Jordan Gysberts (North Melbourne) and Cale Morton (West Coast) in trades, and delisted Ricky Petterd, who was snapped up by Richmond.

In the trade/free agency window, you replaced them with Chris Dawes, Shannon Byrnes, David Rodan, Cam Pedersen and Tom Gillies, all of whom played second-tier football at stages of last season.

We shouldn't be too surprised by the strategy by which you attacked the off-season.

Has Glenn got it right or are the Dees on the right track? Leave a comment below

As far back as last July, coach Mark Neeld forecast that he was a big fan of the film Moneyball and intended to apply it to Demons' plans as he embarked on his second season as coach.

Moneyball was a good movie and an even better book, but we're not sure what happened at the Oakland Athletics baseball team applies to the Melbourne Football Club of 2013.

Brad Pitt in a scene from Columbia Pictures' drama film Moneyball. Source: Supplied

And what has happened over the pre-season has only increased our worries in terms of the shortfall between the Demons' in and out trays for 2013.

In fairness, Moloney and Rivers effectively walked out on the club. But both appear set for big seasons.

Moloney won a best-and-fairest two years ago and was one of the best contested ball winners in the AFL that season.

Last year he was a shadow of his former self, spending plenty of time at Casey Scorpions. We'd love to know why. Was it attitude as much as form?

Demons fans would have been watching with gnawed fingernails his form in the NAB Cup final when he constantly extracted the ball from contests. Eighteen-year-old Viney will be playing that role for the Demons this year.

Rivers is no Matthew Scarlett, but he looms as an important player for the Cats.

Why did he spend so much time forward in the second half of last year? He is an out-and-out backman.

Martin has the height and frame for AFL football, even if his output so far has not been where it should be. At Brisbane, he might achieve his potential.

We're not sure just what sort of output Gysberts, Morton and Petterd might give their respective clubs. But two were first-round draft picks, adding to the talent pool lost over summer.

Brent Moloney fires off a handball against Collingwood. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

What of the players the Demons got in return?

So much of the Moneyball philosophy is all about getting the right players for the right price.

Dawes might prove to be the right player - Neeld knows him well from his Collingwood days - but has he come at the right price?

On his 2010 premiership form, maybe. On what he has achieved over the past two seasons, not a chance.

There are two questions here. Can Dawes regain that form again? And will he justify the four-year, reported $2 million deal?

Dual premiership player Byrnes is about to turn 29. He might be worth the punt as an unrestricted free agent, but the fact remains he played only four games with Geelong last year.

Byrnes excited fans by kicking five goals in an intra-club game in February. But he has only done that once in an AFL match - back in 2009. And he has only six goals from nine games in the last two seasons.

Rodan is also 29. He will bring spirit, character and good teaching to the young Melbourne midfield, but has he got many kilometres left in his battle-scarred knees? He managed 10 matches for Port last year, averaging 14 disposals.

Can Pedersen and Gillies - effectively cast off by their former clubs - make their mark with their new clubs? The Dees hope so.

Neeld rightly wanted to change the culture of the playing list. Heaven knows it needed it. Good on him for having the courage of his convictions.

But on raw numbers the club is clearly further back in terms of talent than it was at the start of last season.

We'll surprise people: New Demons recruit David Rodan runs during a training drill at AAMI Park last month. Picture: Blair Hamish Source: Herald Sun

We will know more on Sunday when you take on Port Adelaide - a team that has heavily invested in the national draft recently.

Champion Data has rated the Demons' draw the easiest in the competition this year. Two games each against GWS and Gold Coast as well as 13 at the MCG.

We hope our concerns prove unfounded and that the Moneyball theory works.

Your fans have been waiting for far too long and deserve a break.

Good luck on Sunday.

Yours Sincerely,

Glenn McFarlane

PS...

1. DANYLE PEARCE
We loved the way you have slotted into Ross Lyon's exciting Dockers' outfit, but what's with the dance-stomp goal celebrations?

Fremantle's Danyle Pearce celebrates a great second quarter goal. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: The Sunday Times

2. BOB KATTER
Bob, you must be joking about your new policy of AFL players getting tax-breaks because of the joy they bring the fans. What about others who bring us joy? You left out little kids, cute puppies, Father Christmas, the Easter Bunny, and the Tattslotto reps who call you to say "You've won.''

3. THE MCC, AFL and CRICKET AUSTRALIA
C'mon guys, lock yourselves in a room and sort out your differences so we can have the first AFL match of 2014 before a massive MCG crowd.

4. ADELAIDE MIDFIELDERS
Maybe it is time you started lending Patrick Dangerfield a hand in the contests.

Follow Glenn McFarlane on Twitter @MaccaHeraldSun

Adelaide's Patrick Dangerfield under extreme pressure. Source: Getty Images

 

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Viney locked in for Dees debut

SuperFooty delivers the best live match news to your phone

Jack Viney tries to evade James Frawley at Melbourne training. Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE will unleash father-son draft gun Jack Viney against Port Adelaide on Sunday.

The Dees said today Viney, picked up under the father-son rule in last year's national draft, would play alongside the club's top draft pick Jimmy Toumpas.

Mature-age draftee Matt Jones will also be part of the Demons' team when it is named tonight.

Jones, 25, played suburban football in Melbourne and Queensland before impressing with the Box Hill Hawks in the VFL last season. He was given an AFL lifeline by the Demons with pick 52 in the draft.

SuperCoach Round 1 formguide: Captain picks, lockout info and more!

The Demons will play seven club debutants against the Power, with former Cats Shannon Byrnes and Tom Gillies to join ex-Kangaroo Cam Pederson and former Port Adelaide midfielder David Rodan in the Dees' line-up.

Chris Dawes hasn't recovered from a calf injury in time and won't play.

It appears mature-age South Australian recruit Dean Terlich has also missed the cut.

Please Explain: Demons moneyball mayhem

To see all the Round 1 teams as they are named join the live chat below from 5.30pm.

LIVE HQ: Join Gilbert Gardiner from 5.30pm for AFL Round 1 teams and Nissan SuperCoach chat below:

On a mobile? Click HERE for a better chat experience. 

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10 things you'll see tonight

It doesn't matter how well Daniel Jackson plays tonight. He's still unlikely to win any Richmond fans over. Source: Getty Images

WILL a player drop dead from jumper asphyxiation? Will Chris Judd be a shadow of his former self? We predict tonight's big stories.

1 - Richmond supporters light a membership card bonfire

The eternal optimism that Tigers fans bring to Round 1 every year never ceases to amaze us.

That's despite Richmond losing its last nine games against Carlton, including every season-opener since 2007, so don't be surprised to see fans looking for the nearest flame to torch their plastic.

Carlton's current winning streak against the yellow and black is its longest since they went 24 games without dropping one between 1908 and 1917.

2 - Same Mick, different shirt

The moustached one will be extra prickly tonight, with the Carlton faithful expecting the earth but the coach not necessarily having the greatest list at his disposal.

It might not be the best night for a young journo to chance his arm with a curly one in the press conference.

Then again, maybe Mick will just lose the plot again and talk about bread...

Jake King might be too big for his own good this year. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

3 - Medical emergency due to overly tight jumper

At some point this year a player is going to lose circulation to their brain after going one size too small in the jumper department.

From what we've seen, St Kilda are the biggest "spray-on" offenders, but there's a little man at Punt Rd who might just trump them and pass out if he flexes a bicep a little too vigourously at any point against Carlton.

If Jake "the push-up" King has been doing the kind of reps we know he can in the off-season, there's every chance he might never get out of the jumper he puts on tonight.

4 - SuperCoaches bemoaning their Cotchin/Deledio decision

Can you squeeze both Trent Cotchin and Brett Deledio into your squad?

Unlikely, with Deledio no longer a backline option. So who do you pick?

Cotchin will probably have Andrew Carrazzo going Siamese on him for large chunks of the game, which could spell trouble for the Tigers captain.

With the Blues also having to think about Dustin Martin and Reece Conca, not to mention Shane Tuck, Deledio may once again be left to do as he likes.

Better go with Brett.

Ultimate SuperCoach Round 1 formguide

5 - Traffic armageddon

There's rain around today, which means average motorists become mobile road blocks as they slow down by 30km/h, halve that speed again if there are tram tracks and generally freak out for no apparent reason.

With tomorrow's public holiday making tonight effectively a Friday, expect to see traffic gridlock around the 'G from now until about May.

You'd suggest taking public transport would be a better bet, but with the temperature straying outside of the 22C-24C window at which Melbourne's system can run without going into meltdown, you might be better to dust off your bike.

6 - Action Jackson to be a hated man

Daniel Jackson is the man Richmond fans love to hate.

It's hard to understand why a bloke who sees himself as a bit of an intellectual doesn't endear himself to the rabid crew behind the Tigers' goals, but for some reason he (and let's not forget Tyrone Vickery) cops most of the wrath from the stands.

Maybe it's the red hair.

Maybe it's his disposal efficiency that usually hovers somewhere around mid-60 per cent.

Maybe it's his two suspensions last year, one of which was for striking Chris Knights, who is now his teammate.

Either way, Jackson (pictured, top) could have 35 disposals and kick five goals and he'd still find manure in his locker on Monday morning.

Carlton fans will be hoping Levi Casboult will be the missing link up forward tonight. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

7 - Excuses about Carlton's game plan

We've heard Malthouse making a rod for his own back all pre-season, talking about needing more time to implement Carlton's new style.

But will Blues fans buy what the boss is selling?

Geelong revamped their game plan in 2011 under new coach Chris Scott and won a premiership.

Yes, their list was superior to Carlton's, but the shift to a kicking game from the Cats' handball-heavy style was the cornerstone of their third flag in five years.

Other coaches to turn their team around in quick time ... try Sydney's premiership-winning second year under John Longmire?

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

8 - More of Maric's mullet

Surely that thing is alive.

The Richmond big man had a breakout season in 2012, while carrying the ruck duties almost solo for the entire year.

But was he alone?

The marsupial growing on the hulking Tiger's head must surely be ready to spring forth and don a jumper of its own.

Expect the running bouffant battle between Maric and Taylor Walker to continue deep into September.

SuperCoach is free and you could win $50,000 - don't miss out! Sign up here

9 - Nothing to look forward to

Anyone else noticed there's been a surprising lack of the usual bleating about a footy-free Good Friday?

Thankfully the NRL and the A-League have scant respect for the sanctity of religious holidays.

Tomorrow night we'll settle in with fish 'n' chips and turn our attention to the white ball to see the Storm take on the Broncos up north, and the round ball as Newcastle take on Western Sydney.

Probably the only time all year that the AFL will lose the cross-code battle - though Channel 7 will be doing some solid work with the Good Friday Appeal - but it's still an annual sporting downer.

This could be the year that former Blues captain Chris Judd finally crashes back to earth. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

10 - A shadow of the former Judd?

Just three quarters of pre-season action, diminishing pace and a battery of quick opponents set to come at him.

Tonight could be the beginning of a tough year for former Blues captain Chris Judd, and SuperCoach boffins agree.

Just 3.6 per cent of SuperCoaches have Judd in their team this year - a  far cry from years gone by when he'd be a walk-up start in most squads and an almost guaranteed 100+ points each week.

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Steven Baker cops life ban

Former St Kilda hard man Steven Baker. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun

FORMER St Kilda hard man Steven Baker has been banned from playing football for life.

Baker was last night found guilty of unduly rough conduct by the Mornington Peninsula Football League after just one practice match with new club Sorrento.

Baker, who played 203 games for the Saints, was called before the MPNFL tribunal after an incident that left Red Hill player Blake Thompson with a broken jaw on March 9.

The former AFL tagger was found not guilty of striking and not guilty of charging, but was found guilty of a rough conduct charge despite a lack of video evidence. The three field umpires also told the hearing they didn't see anything.

Baker is strongly protesting his innocence and is understood to be shattered by the decision. He last night told the tribunal it was the only time in his career that he wished he had been caught on camera.

"I ran to intercept the Red Hill ball carrier, but a couple of seconds before I got there I noticed another Red Hill player (Thompson) was moving to shepherd his ball carrier,'' Baker said in his statement.

"I braced myself and we made contact. We clashed heads and we both went to ground. I did not raise my arm or fist.''

Baker was given a six-week suspension, but because that ban took him beyond a nationwide 16-week career suspension limit he was told he coudn't play football again at any level.

Baker was suspended for a total of 28 weeks in his controversial AFL career, but that total is halved at amateur level - placing him on a career total of 14 weeks when he joined Sorrento.

Baker copped several big suspensions during his time at St Kilda, including a seven-match ban for striking Fremantle forward Jeff Farmer and a nine-match ban on four separate charges after a stoush with Geelong's Steve Johnson in 2010.

Sorrento has already lodged an appeal.

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Who is your Most Important Player?

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Scott Pendlebury is one of the best players in the AFL. But is he the most important player at Collingwood? Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

WHO is the player your club could least afford to lose?

Here is your chance to vote for the most important player on every team's list.

Keep in mind that "most important" and "best" aren't necessarily the same thing.

While you could make a good case that Gold Coast would be in huge trouble if Gary Ablett wasn't in the side, it isn't so clear-cut when it comes to the likes of Scott Pendlebury or Chris Judd.

Those guys are genuine stars, but how crucial are they to their team's fortunes?

The answer comes down to the role they play in the side - and that word you hear so often from coaches: "structure".

When Pendlebury broke his leg in Round 10 last season, the Magpies didn't rush him back - because they didn't want to risk one of their best players, and also because they had plenty more midfielders who could do his job while he was out. The Pies lost just one of the five matches Pendles missed.

Covering Nick Maxwell in defence isn't so easy. He has three career Brownlow votes (compared to Pendlebury's 81), but of the five matches he was missed last season through injury and suspension, Collingwood won two and lost the other three.

So who gets your vote?

Another way to look at it is to consider opposition teams - which player would you like to be missing when they play your side?

Have your say on every club by clicking the team logo on the interactive above.

Read our quick profiles of the four candidates for each team selected by SuperFooty writers and click on the green button to cast your vote - then see how your vote compares to all the other SuperFooty readers.

We may have got some wrong. If we have, feel free to leave a comment in the box below.

So tell us, who is each club's Most Important Player?

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Buddy's not on our radar: Lyon

RULED OUT: Ross Lyon says Lance Franklin is not on Fremantle's radar. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

FREMANTLE coach Ross Lyon has fired back at claims the Dockers are chasing Lance Franklin, saying the multi-outlet reports were "a beat-up" and he had personally approached Hawthorn to quell the speculation.

Lyon said he approached Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson at a recent meeting to insist there was no truth to rumours the Dockers would approach Franklin, who has put off contract talks until the end of the season.

"This will clear it up and probably puts a really fine point on it; I went to a coaches association sub-committee meeting and Alastair Clarkson was there and we have a professional relationship," Lyon said.

"I sought him out, because this was bubbling around - unlike (Travis) Cloke last year, we were clearly in that - and this is totally different.

"I sought out Alastair and said, 'This is not us. Just to be really clear, just to let you know so you don't have to worry, it is not us'.

"That's on the public record.

"I think that really puts that article (into perspective); lack of rigor, lack of substance and just sensationalism in its true context.

"It should clarify for the whole industry and I can't be more clear than that."

Lyon said Fremantle had two priorities in its list management - retaining its burgeoning talent base and servicing its veterans - and those would be the areas it would focus on.

"That's a clear message to our player group, that they're the priority for us, and a clear message to anyone that wants to write stories that have no basis," he said.

"It eradicates that.

"It's an opinion business and, I mean, when Taylor Walker came through, did anyone know he was going to be a power forward? And (Kurt) Tippett and young (Sam) Reid from the Swans?

"Sometimes, people occur and grab opportunities and you think, 'Gee, where did he come from'.

"I think that just suited the red herring, or the kite being flown or, I'm not sure what it's called in this profession."

Lyon's comments come the morning after the club's 20-year-old Jayden Pitt was announced to have a heart condition that could result in the premature end of his career.

An irregular heartbeat discovered by medical screenings resulted in Pitt's career being immediately suspended for health reasons.

"We're really supportive of Jayden and he's been working behind the scenes with our medical staff (along with) his parents Greg and Jenny," Lyon said.

"It's been the result of a strong welfare program for our players, it's not mandatory screening, although it probably should be.

"A number of clubs do it and it's thrown up this, which is a big risk for Jayden and his career.

"He's had to put his AFL career on hold and, personally, as a senior coach with 45 players on our list, (I have) genuine care for all of them and this is a unique situation that I haven't come across before."

Follow Glen Foreman on Twitter: @glen_foreman
 

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Jack Frost set for fairytale debut

Young Collingwood defender Jack Frost is set to make his AFL debut against North Melbourne on Sunday. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

COACH Nathan Buckley insists Collingwood has the depth to cover a raft of injuries it has to contend with for Sunday's season-opener against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium.

And it may be key defender Jack Frost, who was only elevated off the club's injury list last week, who is thrown in to the action to help curb the Kangaroos' abundance of key forwards.

Dale Thomas (ankle), Alan Didak (hamstring), Alex Fasolo (hamstring), Luke Ball (knee), Lachie Keeffe (knee) and Andrew Krakouer have all been ruled out of Sunday's game.

But Buckley is nonplussed and said players without a "solid pre-season training block'' would not be rushed back in to the side for the sake of it.

He insisted ruckman Darren Jolly is fit to play, said defender Ben Reid is "up and about'' after missing the last practice match and said Tyson Goldsack was available for selection after three games with the VFL team following off-season ankle surgery.

"As I've banged on about all pre-season, I feel like we've got some great depth. We've got competition for spots,'' Buckley said.

"We've got some injuries that we'd rather do without, but the fact is we have the depth to cover it and that's part of why you go through a pre-season, to prepare the depth of your list for the year.

"Different players are going to be called upon at different times and we'll take the field with our fittest team in Round 1, there's no doubt about that.''

The Barometer: Selection latest at every club

Buckley said 21-year-old Frost, recruited from VFL side Williamstown last year, was under serious consideration this week.

"One of the most positive aspects of our pre-season was the emergence of a couple of our rookie-listed players,'' Buckley said.

"Jack Frost has been elevated on to the senior list and has proven his ability to shut down tall (forwards) with the absence of Nathan Brown and Ben Reid at times.

"He adds to our depth there and it becomes important, shutting down North's talls, they generally play that three tall forwards set up more often than not and they're very agile and fit players as well, so that's something we're definitely looking at.''

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Judd doesn't miss captaincy

Chris Judd expects to play 80 per cent of the Blues' Round 1 clash against Richmond. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

CHRIS Judd says he has been reinvigorated after relinquishing the Carlton captaincy.

Judd described himself as now "one of the soldiers" following Marc Murphy's elevation to the role at their AFL club.

He says there are parts of the leadership role he will not miss.

"It's just a nice thing to do later on in your career where you can really just focus on playing footy and not be distracted by some of the administrative duties that go with being in a leadership position," Judd said.

"It's not that I won't have a say at the club or won't be fully engaged, but I certainly feel like I'm enjoying the purity of just worrying about playing footy."

Judd admitted he had to make a choice and decided concentrating solely on playing was his preference.

"It's one of those things, you can't be half pregnant and you can't be half a captain," Judd said.

"There's a lot of parts of being captain that I loved and really enjoyed and probably some other parts that I grew tired of.

"You can't pick and choose with a job like that, so the time was right to hand it over and Murph has already done a terrific job."

Cancer survivor Sam Rowe pushes for Round 1 spot

Judd said he would mentor some of the younger players but made it clear he would not try to influence the leadership.

"Murph's the boss, him and the rest of the leaders are making the rules and I'm one of the soldiers, and that's sort of refreshing as well," he said.

Judd has been troubled by hamstring issues and said he "didn't have a great pre-season" but said he was now almost back to full fitness.

The Barometer: Updated injury list at every club

The Blues open their AFL campaign against Richmond this week and Judd said he expected to play up to 80 per cent of the game.

"Not having that (NAB Cup) rotation cap, it will be easier just to play in six-minute bursts," he said.

He said he planned to play on next season but there would be no more lengthy contracts at Carlton in his future.

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Hardwick welcomes Tiger pressure

Richmond coach Damian Hardwick at Richmond training today. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

RICHMOND coach Damien Hardwick says the Tigers have embraced the increased expectation surrounding the club this season.

The Tigers have not played finals since 2001 and Hardwick said the heat was on.

" The best place to be is when expectations are high," Hardwick said.

"That's where you get your best results. We've put the pressure on our guys this year to march their way up the ladder, as probably have 17 other clubs.

"We certainly look forward to rising to the challenge...I think there's some 14 sides that are going to be challenging for the final eight position and we're going to one of those and we certainly look forward to taking it on and seeing where we end up."

Richmond has lost its past nine games against Carlton and hasn't defeated the Blues in Round 1 since 2008.

Hardwick said the Tigers are a different side to the one that was trounced by Carlton by 44 points in Round 1 last season.

"All we're worried about is our pre-season form and how that's transgressed over the summer," Hardwick said.

Tame Tigers: A brief history of Round 1 heartbreak

"We've been reasonably happy with the way we've played. We had a really tough tussle, which is exactly the way you want to go into Round 1, versus the Bulldogs in NAB four and came out on top.

"We're certainly looking forward to a great contest.

"Our list has improved again, they've got further experience, we think we're better prepared so look, overall we think it's going to be a good result for us going into Round 1."

Hardwick said first-round draft pick Nick Vlastuin and former Port Adelaide defender Troy Chaplin were a chance to debut for the Tigers on Thursday night.

Pic gallery: Tigers tune up for Carlton clash

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Hawks to make late call on stars

Hawthorn captain Luke Hodge is on the comeback trail from a knee injury. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

LUKE Hodge, Cyril Rioli and Brian Lake are all in the mix to face Geelong next Monday, according to Hawthorn teammate Shaun Burgoyne.

Burgoyne said the trio were all in full training and it would be up to the match committee to decide whether they play against the Cats.

He said the trio would be assessed closer to the game.

"I think all of those guys are fit and ready to play, so it just depends on match committee and which way they go," Burgoyne said at Waverley Park today.

"They are all quality players as well."

Burgoyne said the match committee obviously had to consider how many players, who had missed match conditioning, would be promoted.

"I think it's going to be a long match committee meeting because there are only one or two guys who really aren't up for selection, apart from the guys who have had their knees done.

"Everyone else is putting their hand up this week."

Hodge is making his way back from knee problems while Rioli (ankle) and Lake (calf) haven't played since the first round of the NAB Cup.

Speaking on Nova FM this morning, Hodge was less optimistic about playing in the AFL season-opener.

"I will be playing this weekend but more than likely Box Hill," Hodge said.

"(My comeback is) more likely (Round) 3 or 4. My body feels great, from the operation I have built up nicely and I'm just looking forward to playing some footy."

The Hawks have three players recovering from knee surgery - defenders Matt Suckling and Brendan Whitecross and young midfielder Alex Woodward.

Burgoyne said he was optimistic about breaking the Hawks' losing streak against the Cats which dates from the 2008 Grand Final.

"They have come out on top but I have no doubt on Monday there's going to be a massive crowd there and they are going to come hard at us again but hopefully we can turn things around this time," he said.

"They have been really tight games and with Hawkins kicking a goal after the siren last year shows how tight it was and we are expecting a game like that again."

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Pavlich report thrown out

Dockers skipper Matthew Pavlich was reported for charging Eagle Will Schofield in Derby No.37. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: PerthNow

MATTHEW Pavlich's match-day report has been thrown out but the Dockers are set to lose forward Hayden Ballantyne for a week.

The Fremantle captain was reported after crashing into Eagles defender Will Schofield.

But the match review panel ruled today that Pavlich jumped to mark before the ball reached Schofield and braced for contact when he realised he would not take the mark.

The panel ruled the contact did not constitute a reportable offence.

Ballantyne, however, has been offered a one-match suspension for engaging in rough conduct against Scott Selwood.

Contact was assessed as reckless, body contact and low impact.

His previous poor record means he can't reduce the penalty to a reprimand even if he enters an early guilty plea.

Pavlich dodged a bullet, with 93.75 carry-over points hanging over his head for an incident in Round 19 last season.

But the Fremantle captain didn't escape the derby completely unscathed.

He revealed on Twitter yesterday he had visited hospital after the game to get his "hand and finger fixed and stitched up".

"No breaks & looks good for Rd 2," he said.

LiveHQ: SuperCoach scores, stats and more from Freo's win

Pavlich was held goalless in the Dockers' impressive win, restricted to just 60 SuperCoach points.

PAVLICH'S HAND. PHOTO: INSTAGRAM

Source: HWT Image Library

But North Melbourne star Drew Petrie said the star forward had little to worry about for his report.
 

"Hopefully the tribunal and match review panel will look favourably on it," he told Channel 7's Game Day.

Petrie said Pavlich bracing himself before colliding with Schofield in a marking contest meant he should have no case to answer.

Meanwhile, WEST COAST'S horror injury list has been compounded by the loss of Mark LeCras and possibly Eric Mackenzie.

GALLERY: Pearce ignites as Dockers whip Eagles

LeCras has had a plate inserted in his arm and is expected to miss 4-6 weeks.

Mackenzie pinged a hamstring, placing him in doubt for the Eagles' crunch Round 2 duel against Hawthorn.

Ruckman Dean Cox said LeCras was in scintillating pre-season form, adding to the tragedy of his injury in his first match since 2011.

"He had an x-ray last night and it did reveal he had a broken arm," Cox said today.

"They'll rush him to surgery as quickly as possibly and hopefully he doesn't miss too many weeks."

ADELAIDE also has injury concerns with Luke Brown substituted out of Friday night's loss to Essendon with a foot complaint.

LiveHQ: SuperCoach scores, stats and more from the Dons' win

Brown tweeted yesterday: "Thanks to everyone for the supportive messages. Good signs so far now to rest up and recovery."

ESSENDON star David Zaharakis will suit up in the VFL next week as he looks to build on match fitness after his limited pre-season.

Zaharakis, who was the substitute against the Crows, told Channel 7 he was set to line up for Essendon's reserves in a practice match against Sandringham.
 
- with AAP

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The Barometer: Round 1

SuperFooty delivers the best live match news to your phone

Mitch Clark has lacked match fitness. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

SOME crunch decisions for Melbourne, a heavy Collingwood injury list and Matthew Leuenberger a 50-50 chance to face the Bulldogs.

Read on for the latest injury and selection news a

ADELAIDE

Nick Joyce (groin) TBA
Ian Callinan (knee) test
Brodie Smith (collarbone) 3 weeks
Luke Brown (foot) test
Ricky Henderson (concussion) test

Luke Brown will be available for selection after scans cleared the young defender of any bone damage despite finishing Friday night's game against Essendon on crutches. Ricky Henderson copped a knock to the head but should be right to go. Ian Callinan will be pushing for selection as will fringe midfielder Richard Tambling, who impressed in an SANFL trial with 22 disposals, five marks and four tackles. Sam Shaw had a light run with Glenelg and could come into consideration. Substitute Brodie Martin might struggle to keep his spot while defender Andy Otten could miss for Shaw. Jared Petrenko should improve after a lacklustre effort against Essendon.

- Gilbert Gardiner

BRISBANE LIONS

Simon Black (knee) Indefinite
Matthew Leuenberger (calf) 1 week
Jesse O'Brien (groin) 1 week
Brent Staker (knee) 3 weeks
Stephen Wrigley (knee) TBA

Lions coach Michael Voss today rated Matthew Leuenberger a 50-50 chance to play against the Bulldogs after a limited pre-season. The big ruckman emerged unscathed after playing a half for the Lions reserves last week but Brisbane will take no risks on Leuey, given the sharp improvement in Billy Longer's game. Utility Brent Staker is still two weeks away while Simon Black remains a longer term proposition.

- Gilbert Gardiner

CARLTON

Jaryd Cachia (hamstring) TBA
Andrew Collins (ankle) TBA
David Ellard (hamstring) TBA
Andrew McInnes (knee) 14 weeks
Jarrad Waite (calf) 3-4 weeks

Jarrad Waite remains the only selection headache for Mick Malthouse with the key forward still some weeks away. Waite, who has struggled with a niggling calf strain, is not expected back in navy blue until Round 3. Hard-nosed midfielder Jaryd Cachia will be monitored after experiencing some hamstring tightness during the pre-season. No sweat on veteran Chris Judd despite his limited pre-season - 72 minutes of match practice. Reigning best-and-fairest winner Heath Scotland will miss the first two matches serving his club-imposed suspension.

- Gilbert Gardiner

COLLINGWOOD

Alex Fasolo (hamstring) test
Jackson Ramsay (groin) test
Ben Richmond (leg) test
Dale Thomas (ankle) test
Ben Reid (knee) test
Andrew Krakouer (match fitness) 1-2 weeks
Luke Ball (knee) 1-2 weeks
Alan Didak (hamstring) 2-3 weeks
Corey Gault (groin) 4-5 weeks
Brodie Grundy (back) 6-7 weeks
Lachie Keeffe (knee) 6-7 weeks)
Tim Broomhead (glandular fever) indefinite

A mega injury list, but the stars are at the right end of it in some relief to Nathan Buckley. Strangely enough, Dale Thomas could play the curtain-raiser to Blues-Tigers when the VFL Pies tackle the AIS-AFL Academy. Fasolo is expected to face the Roos, as will Tyson Goldsack, while Ben Reid, Luke Ball and Andrew Krakouer aren't too far away. With Reid and Keeffe sidelined, watch for stingy VFL recruit Jack Frost - a $96,200 SuperCoach steal - to debut against North's tall-timber attack

- Sam Landsberger

The Magpies have not put a time frame on negotiations with Dale Thomas. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON

Jason Winderlich (groin) test

The top-of-the-table Bombers (enjoy it while it's there) have just one player from its entire squad unavailable. That's a serious improvement on last year. David Zaharakis is expected to build on his match fitness with another VFL practice match this week, while the rest of the Dons now have two weeks to prepare for their Round 2 showdown with bogey side Melbourne.

- Sam Landsberger

FREMANTLE

Anthony Morabito (knee) Indefinite
Aaron Sandilands (hamstring) 3-4 weeks
Matthew Pavlich (hand) test
Hayden Ballantyne (leg) TBA

Matthew Pavlich should be right to go despite going into hospital after last Saturday's match to repair split webbing on his left hand. X-rays cleared the skipper of any breaks. Hayden Ballantyne is set to miss the Dockers' next assignment on suspension. But it could be a blessing in disguise after the antagonist left the game early with tightness in his hamstring and lower leg. Expect the small forward to be restricted to light duties this week. Aaron Sandilands is still a month away, at best.

- Gilbert Gardiner

GEELONG

Hamish McIntosh (knee) TBA
Josh Hunt (glandular fever) TBA
Daniel Menzel (knee) 2-3 weeks
Dawson Simpson (back) Indefinite
Trent West (knee) 1-2 weeks
Jed Bews (foot) TBA
George Burbury (foot) TBA

When Hamish McIntosh was traded to Geelong it was a matter of where do you play all these talls. Now, it's who's left to ruck after injuries to Trent West (knee), Dawson Simpson (back) and McIntosh (knee). Former steeplechaser Mark Blicavs will have first crack at the Hawks after impressing in the NAB Cup. Josh Walker, also a rookie, will be added to the senior list to help out at the stoppages. Steve Johnson and James Kelly will sit out Monday's blockbuster against Hawthorn serving one-match bans from last year's elimination final. Luckless forward Daniel Menzel is expected to return through the VFL.

- Gilbert Gardiner

GOLD COAST:

Tom Lynch (foot) 3-4 weeks
Jesse Lonergan (wrist) 4-5 weeks
Nathan Bock (leg) indefinite
Liam Patrick (hamstring) TBC

Handy names on the Suns' injury toll, which is a bit of a concern. Lonergan, Gold Coast's top draft pick last year, was on track for a Round 1 debut before breaking his hand, while Tom Lynch's absence weakens the attack.

- Sam Landsberger

GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY

Matthew Buntine (lung) 5 weeks
Chad Cornes (shoulder) Indefinite
Jonothan O'Rourke (leg) 2 weeks
Dom Tyson (knee) 8 weeks
Nathan Wilson (shoulder) test

Matthew Buntine and Dom Tyson aside, the Giants have a full list to pick from ahead of Saturday's Battle of the Bridge against cross-town rivals Sydney. Chad Cornes' career appears at the crossroads with no date set for his return from shoulder/knee injuries. Jono O'Rourke needs another couple of weeks after twinging a hamstring in his NAB Cup debut.

- Gilbert Gardiner

HAWTHORN

Josh Gibson (ribs) test
Cyril Rioli (ankle) test
Brian Lake (calf) doubtful
Luke Hodge (knee) doubtful
Alex Woodward (knee) indefinite
Brendan Whitecross (knee) indefinite
Matt Suckling (knee) indefinite

Back Gibson and Rioli to play despite pre-season niggles. The extended break – the Hawks don't front up to face Geelong until Easter Monday – will help, but Lake and Hodge lack match conditioning. That pair was expected to seek fitness in a lower grade, although Shaun Burgoyne today forecast they all could be surprise inclusions. If not expect the Hawks to roll out Lake against a well-rested West Coast side on the rebound in Perth come Round 2 while Hodge let slip on radio this morning that his return to the top level might be a week or two later.

- Sam Landsberger

Strauggling Hawthorn captain Luke Hodge yesterday. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE

Rohan Bail (concussion) 1 week
Max Gawn (hamstring) 2 weeks

THE unavailable list is thin but that doesn't translate into the Dees having little to worry about. Super boots Mitch Clark and Chris Dawes have combined for just 100 minutes of football this pre-season, placing them in extreme doubt for Sunday's duel with Port Adelaide, while co-captain Jack Trengove is in a similar boat. That trio donned Casey colours in a VFL scratch match on Saturday in the desperate search for match fitness, and coach Mark Neeld faces some tough dilemmas on whether to pick his underdone stars this week. But father-son star Jack Viney is expected to debut after overcoming a neck injury and impressing for the Scorpions.

- Sam Landsberger

NORTH MELBOURNE

Nil

The Kangaroos boast a clean bill of health a full list to choose from ahead of Sunday's match against Collingwood. Scott McMahon will miss on suspension as will veteran Brent Harvey, who is not eligible for selection until Round 7. Nathan Grima was the big improver in the NAB Cup after battling a back problem during the pre-season.

PORT ADELAIDE

John Butcher (hand) doubtful
Nick Salter (foot) 6-8 weeks

A healthy list after a fruitful summer. The major bonus is the speedy return of Robbie Gray. The freakish goalkicker is AFL-ready after two SANFL hitouts and could line up against the Dees. Watch for midfield beast and top draft pick Ollie Wines to debut, while former Eagle Lewis Stevenson and Jake Neade could also feature.

- Sam Landsberger

Port Adelaide key forward John Butcher at training. Picture: Sarah Reed. Source: The Advertiser

RICHMOND

David Astbury (foot) 1-2 weeks
Nathan Foley (Achilles) 4-6 weeks

Dylan Grimes (hamstring) and Brad Helbig (foot) each played a half for VFL affiliate Coburg on the weekend and came through unscathed. Matt Arnot (28 disposals), Chris Knights (28 touches in three quarters) and Orren Stephenson (45 hitouts) all put up impressive numbers but are unlikely to break into the Round 1 line-up after a four-day break. Nick Vlastuin is likely to make his debut on Thursday night and former Demon Ricky Petterd is a strong chance after an impressive NAB Cup.

- Al Paton

ST KILDA

Rhys Stanley (knee) doubtful
Sam Fisher (foot) doubtful
Sean Dempster (hamstring) 1 week
Jackson Ferguson (knee) 5 weeks
Daniel Markworth (knee) indefinite

The Saints' injury list seems to be confined to their defensive mix. Stanley, Fisher and Dempster could all miss the Gold Coast clash, which is suddenly shaping as a danger game. But, all things going well, they should boast a full-strength side when they take to the Friday night stage against Richmond in Round 2.

- Sam Landsberger

SYDNEY

Alex Johnson (knee) season
Gary Rohan (leg) indefinite

Alex Johnson is the only injury concern in the Harbour City with the Swans expected to upgrade Sydney-raised rookie Dean Rampe as his replacement. Kieren Jack's younger brother, Brandon, could also be added to the senior list.

- Gilbert Gardiner

WEST COAST

Mark Nicoski (hamstring) 8 weeks
Matt Rosa (quad) 6-8 weeks
Sharrod Wellingham (ankle) 4-6 weeks
Nick Naitanui (groin) 3-4 weeks
Daniel Kerr (knee) 3-4 weeks
Adam Carter (ankle) 1-2 weeks
Mark LeCras (arm) 4-6 weeks
Eric McKenzie (hamstring) 1-2 weeks

Coach John Worsfold says he is optimistic LeCras could return within a month after having a plate inserted in his arm yesterday, but everything would have to go right for that to happen. McKenzie limped off with a low-grade hamstring injury in the third quarter on Saturday night but a week off next week gives him a strong chance of playing against Hawthorn in Round 2. Big names Naitanui and Kerr have rejoined the main training group but seem a few weeks off at least. Possible reinforcements are a class below those names - the Eagles' emergencies against Freo were Jacob Brennan, Mitch Brown and Bradd Dalziell.

- Al Paton

WESTERN BULLDOGS

Adam Cooney (knee) test
Easton Wood (hamstring) test
Tom Williams (foot) 1-2 weeks

The intrigue centres around Adam Cooney, who was hospitalised last week with an infection in his knee. But the Brownlow medallist is out and, if he can train this week, could face the Lions. Easton Wood is also racing the clock as he overcomes a hamstring problem, with Tom Williams the only definite non-starter. The Dogs could boast a clean bill of health come their Round 2 encounter against Fremantle.

- Sam Landsberger

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 15: Adam Cooney of the Western Bulldogs runs with the ball away from Andrew Lovett-Murray during the round one AFL NAB Cup match between the Essendon Bombers and the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium on February 15, 2013 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images) Source:

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