LIVE: Saturday arvo footy

Swans co-captain Adam Goodes tries to control the ball over the boundary line. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

4.10pm: Dogs 49 - 87 Dockers

A BURST of three Fremantle goals to open the third quarter has given the travelling side a 38-point lead at the final change at Etihad Stadium.

But there was a major casualty that term - with goal umpire Courtney Lai stretchered from the field with a suspected ACL tear.

Liam Picken collided with Lai in a horrific incident.

Adam Cooney returned to his best with a game-high 26 touches at the last break. And his explosive speed looks to be back, too.

3.52pm: Swans 76 - Suns 54

SYDNEY continues to defy Gold Coast in tough conditions at the SCG.

The Swans lead by 22 points at the final change having held off a defiant Suns outfit during a tight third term.

Gold Coast booted three goals in a hurry to trouble the reigning premiers midway through the term before Nick Smith found Luke Parker on his own 40m out from goal.

Parker made no mistake to steady the ship.

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Suns young gun Jaeger O'Meara overcame a slow start to lead allcomers in the SuperCoach stakes.

The big-bodied midfielder has 99 points, two clear of teammate David Swallow.

Meanwhile, Jarrad McVeigh leads the Swans with 93 points ahead of Luke Parker and Ryan O'Keefe.

3.10pm: Dogs 33 - 60 Dockers

IT'S just not Fremantle captain Matthew Pavlich's day, but his side remains well in control at Etihad Stadium.

The star Docker has one goal but has butchered two big moments. A mark in the goalsquare looked a certain goal until he played on and had the kick smothered by Jordan Roughead.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 06: Tom Young of the Bulldogs competes for the ball during the round two AFL match between the Western Bulldogs and the Fremantle Dockers at Etihad Stadium on April 6, 2013 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Scott Barbour/Getty Images) Source: HWT Image Library

Then, Pav was gifted a free kick 30m out and he sprayed it into the post.

The Dogs have fought back hard in the second term, and when ex-Docker Nick Lower goaled late th margin was back to 27 points.

Lower has shutdown David Mundy, while Liberatore and Fyfe have continued their dazzling midfield battle.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 06: Tom Young of the Bulldogs competes for the ball during the round two AFL match between the Western Bulldogs and the Fremantle Dockers at Etihad Stadium on April 6, 2013 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Scott Barbour/Getty Images) Source: HWT Image Library

2.55pm: Dogs 19 - 38 Dockers

GOALS to midfielders Adam Cooney, Daniel Cross and Clay Smith have the Dogs back in the hunt at Etihad Stadium.

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Cooney threaded his major just before the first break, while the Dogs' continued clearance dominance has them getting first chance at most stoppages.

Tom Liberatore has built on his heroics from last week, racking up 11 early disposals.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 06: Gary Ablett of the Suns kicks during the round two AFL match between the Sydney Swans and the Gold Coast Suns at SCG on April 6, 2013 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

2.45pm: Swans 34 - Suns 15

SYDNEY star Ryan O'Keefe is getting the better of Gold Coast captain Gary Ablett in head-to-head duel at the SCG.

The Swans lead by 19 points on the back of co-captain Jarrad McVeigh's three goals, his second a brilliant snap midway through the second quarter.

O'Keefe leads the Swans with 13 disposals while young forward Andrejs Everitt has 11 possessions and a goal to his name.

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Suns defender Jarrod Harbrow has his hands full stopping the Swans forward thrusts.

Jaeger O'Meara has been the big mover racing to 50 SuperCoach points after failing to touch the ball in the first 17 minutes of play.

2.35: Western Bulldogs 1 - 32 Fremantle

A COMPLETE reversal from last week for the Western Bulldogs. They've conceded the first five goals after kicking the only six in the first quarter against the Brisbane Lions in Round 1.

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The Dogs have dominated clearances but have been badly let down by their ball use. A slick Fremantle has slotted five goals - all from set-shots - with their pace through the midfield causing issues.

The Dockers are unbeaten at Etihad Stadium under Ross Lyon, and that stat looks set to continue.

Nat Fyfe has been the star with a goal from eight early touches, while his direct opponent Tom Liberatore has had eight disposals for the Dogs.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 06: Karmichael Hunt of the Suns is tackled by Kieren Jack of the Swans during the round two AFL match between the Sydney Swans and the Gold Coast Suns at SCG on April 6, 2013 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

2.22pm: Swans 13 - Suns 14

GOLD Coast has its nose in front of reigning premiers Sydney in a scrappy affair at the SCG.

The Suns kicked back-to-back goals to set up the lead before Swans bolter Lewis Jetta slotted his first to cut the margin to one point late in the term.

Kieren Jack and Ryan O'Keefe are the pick of the Swans while Jarrod Harbrow leads the Suns with nine disposals.

Suns defender Rory Thompson spent some time off the ground with checking out his right shoulder.

2.05pm: Swans 12 - Suns 13

DEFENDER Jack Hutchins found himself in uncharted territory up forward but made the most of his opportunity slotting the Suns first goal.

Hutchins found space about 40m out directly in front and converted to give the Suns a slight break.

The visitors pushed further ahead when Charlie Dixon booted his first goal. Jarrod Harbow has picked up five disposals roaming across half back while Gary Ablett, head-to-head with Ryan O'Keefe, has three possessions.

But the Swans responded through Lewis Jetta stepping to kick his first goal and cut the margin to one point.

1.57pm: Swans 6 - Suns 1

SYDNEY co-captain Jarad McVeigh broke the shackles kicking the first goal of the match after about seven minutes of play.

The Suns are hanging tough on difficult day for clean footy with Joel Wilkinson, David Swallow, Gary Ablett and Jarrod Harbrow keeping plenty of the ball.

Kieren Jack, fresh off his best on ground performance last week, has three early possessions.

PRE-GAME

The reigning premiers go into the match against Gold Coast unchanged with Craig Bird starting off as the substitute.

In a surprise move, the Suns have opted for mercurial utility Jared Brennan as their substitute.

Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats

Meanwhile, the Western Bulldogs and Fremantle go toe-to-toe from 2.10pm at Etihad Stadium.

The Bulldogs remain unchanged after their big win over Brisbane last week.

Hard-nosed midfielder Koby Stevens is the Dogs substitute while for the Dockers, Cam Sutcliffe has the vest duties.

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Dempster out for a month

St Kilda defender Sean Dempster will miss 3-4 weeks after breaking his hand. Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: Herald Sun

ALL-Australian defender Sean Dempster is set to miss 3-4 weeks after breaking his hand last night.

He sustained the injury early in the match but played on through the pain as the Saints suffered their second-straight loss of the season.

Dempster finished with 16 disposals including eight rebound-50s. He also clunked six marks.

The 29-year-old played 22 games last year en route to his maiden All-Australian selection.

St Kilda coach Scott Watters lauded Dempster's efforts after the 17-point loss to Richmond at the MCG.

"I don't want to get too caught up in the specifics other than he broke a bone in his wrist," Watters said.

"He was cleared, obviously. We wouldn't put a player out there if he wasn't cleared from our doc. But it was an effort that I admire and I thought there were a number of those from our players even though we lost."

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Goal umpire stretchered off

Goal umpire Courtney Lai lies on the ground after injuring his knee after he was struck by Liam Picken. Photo: Scott Barbour/Getty Images Source: HWT Image Library

A GOAL umpire has been stretchered off the field in the Western Bulldogs-Fremantle clash at Etihad Stadium today with a horrific knee injury.

Officials from both clubs carried goal umpire Courtney Lai from the field after Dogs hardnut Liam Picken fell across his leg, causing it to buckle awkwardly.

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And in a bizarre twist, it has been reported Lai is a qualified doctor and diagnosed his own injury as a possible ACL tear.

Picken laid a heavy bump on Michael Walters as the Docker booted a major from the goalsquare early in the third quarter.

After colliding with Walters, Picken fell across the goal line and collected the umpire.

Lai immediately grimaced in pain and called for assistance.

Field umpire "Razor" Ray Chamberlain patted Lai on the head before he was carried from the field, while the crowd clapped as Lai was lifted onto the stretcher.
 

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Panic Room: Hodge will play

Will Minson joins the boys to discuss their picks ahead of round 2.

TAB's Adam Hamilton previews the upcoming round 2Collingwood vs Carlton game.

Hawthorn captain Luke Hodge is set to return from injury on Sunday. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

LUKE Hodge will take his place in Hawks' line-up but a Magpie is in serious doubt. For the best late whispers step inside the Panic Room.

WHISPERS

HE IS one of Mick Malthouse's favourites but the new Carlton boss isn't expecting Ben Johnson to up against him on Sunday.

The Blues were surprised to see Johnson on the Pies' extended interchange after he suffered a corked quad in the season opener.

He was subbed off before halftime and has done minimal training this week.

Another surprise at the selection table was the naming of Hawthorn captain Luke Hodge, but he will definitely be on the plane to Perth tomorrow.

While Hodge figured after his low-key VFL hitout last weekend he would need more match practice, the word has it his training has gone up a level this week to the point where the coaching stafff couldn't say no.

He is likely to be a candidate for the substitute vest at some stage but 80 per cent fit Hodge is seen as a better option than a kid in the crucial clash at Subiaco.

Speaking of the west, David Mundy will hopefully have enjoyed the trip over to Melbourne because it's not going to be as hospitable tomorrow with the Dogs new version of Tony Liberatore - Nick Lower - believed to have his sights set on the Dockers key midfielder.

And don't be surprised if Sam Fisher doesn't quite get up for tonight's clash at the MCG, with Tiger officials certainly surprised his foot problem and match conditioning was at a level ready to play.

Ben Johnson at Collingwood training. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

SUPERCOACH ALERT

He was on everyone's radar over the pre-season but when his name was missing in Round 1 many of us - including me - panicked and didn't select Dean Terlich. The mature-aged recruit from the Demons was all the rage over the summer and the reason for everyone's excitement was the simple fact he is 23 and ready to dominate straight away. At $109,500, Terlich is rock solid gold. Make him your first trade for the year and then in a month's time watch his price triple.

Footballer Dean Terlich of Norwood Football Club team poses for The Sunday Mail before training at the Norwood oval. Picture: Regi Varghese Source: adelaidenow

MONEY MATTERS

It's more than likely that you've only just stopped counting all the winnings from last week. It was a bonanza (correctly picking Gold Coast, the Cats and GWS at the line) so naturally we step it up this week and really go for the jugular with a four-way multi. The theory centres around a few very ordinary losers from last week actually showing some steel - not enough to win, but enough to keep their losing margin under 39.5 points.

Our suggestion for Round 2 is:
Richmond U/39.5 $2.20
Essendon U/39.5 $2.60
Adelaide U/39.5 $2.35
Hawthorn U/39.5 $2.60
= $34.95

Hawthorn's Lance Franklin bumps Geelong's Joel Selwood at the MCG Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

ON NOTICE

Nathan Buckley

This is it, Bucks. This is the one. We don't care if you don't win another game (well, not really but you know what we mean). There is no way of dancing around the fact that you have to beat Mick Malthouse in your first head-to-head battle. Mick has been playing mind games with you for years and imagine what he'll spin if he gets an undermanned Carlton up to beat you on Sunday. Treat this week like a Grand Final because you're heading for a world of pain if you don't pull it off.

Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley appears more willing to shake things up in his second year in charge. Source: Getty Images

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Live AFL teams chat

Will Minson joins the boys to discuss their picks ahead of round 2.

Even when he's a passenger on a road trip, Shane Crawford is still thinking about SuperCoach - and why Buddy needs to lift. WARNING: Poor quality vision, filmed with a potato.

Magpie Heath Shaw will return after suffering gastro last week. Source: Getty Images

HAWTHORN will give Luke Hodge a chance of making a shock Round 2 return after naming its underdone captain to face West Coast on Sunday.

But Brian Lake is no chance of making his Hawks debut after being left out of the 25-man squad to travel west.

See every Round 2 side in full at Live HQ now

The former Western Bulldog was a late withdrawal against the Cats on Easter Monday, but the Hawks did name recycled recruits Jon Simpkin and Matt Spangher.

FULL ROUND 2 LINE-UPS BELOW

Hodge returned through VFL affiliate Box Hill last week but was considered a Round 3 prospect at the earliest.

Melbourne coach Mark Neeld has axed two of his controversial mature-age recruits in the fallout from last week's embarrassing 79-point loss to Port Adelaide.

David Rodan and Cam Pedersen were axed among four changes, with Luke Tapscott and Lynden Dunn (hamstring) also out of the side to face Essendon on Saturday night.

Veteran Aaron Davey, co-captain Jack Trengove, defender Tom McDonald and debutant Dean Terlich are set to face the Dons at the MCG on Saturday night.

Join the live chat from 4.30pm AEDT to see the final line-ups for Sunday's matches and get the late SuperCoach mail from Gilbert Gardiner:

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The Bombers made no changes after their impressive win against Adelaide two weeks ago.

St Kilda is set to roll the dice on defenders Sam Fisher and Sean Dempster when it battles Richmond tomorrow night.

The Saints, who have not lost their opening two matches since 2000, also brought back veterans Leigh Montagna and Adam Schneider.

Live HQ: Every Round 2 side now

Scott Watters axed Trent Dennis-Lane and lost boom ruckman Tom Hickey (foot), James Gwilt (knee) and Farren Ray (hip) to injury.

The Tigers' backline will receive strong reinforcement from the reinvented Ricky Petterd and injury-riddled Dylan Grimes for the MCG clash.

Hayden Crozier will replace goalsneak Hayden Ballantyne when the Dockers face the  Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

The Dogs left their side unchanged for the first time in coach Brendan McCartney's tenure after last week's surprise 68-point demolition of Brisbane Lions.

Prized draft picks Jackson Macrae and jake Stringer are edging towards debuts as well after their impressive form at VFL level.

Macrae produced a scintillating second half for affiliate Williamstown last week while Stringer blitzed the second-tier league when trialled with Bendigo Gold as the 23rd man last year.

Shtudown king Nick Lower will face his former side for the first time.

Collingwood resisted the urge to bring back Dale Thomas, who returned last week in the VFL, but did name Heath Shaw after he missed last week with gastro.

ST KILDA v RICHMOND, MCG, FRIDAY NIGHT at 7.50pm

ST KILDA
B: J.Blake S.Fisher D.Roberton
HB: J.Geary R.Stanley S.Gilbert
C: A.Schneider L.Hayes N.Dal Santo
HF: A.Siposs N.Riewoldt A.Saad
F: S.Milne B.Maister L.Montagna
R: B.McEvoyD.Armitage J.Steven
I/C: T.Milera J.Newnes C.Jones S.Dempster
EMG: N.Wright T.LeeT.Simpkin

In: L.Montagna , A.Schneider , S.Dempster , S.Fisher
Out: F.Ray (Hip) , J.Gwilt (Knee) , T.Dennis-Lane (Omitted) , T.Hickey (Foot)

SUPERCOACH NOTES:
JARRYN Geary's score of 144 points last week against Gold Coast was the biggest haul of any defender in the competition and 14 more than the next best tally. He finished with 28 disposals and a disposal efficiency of 82% while also generating five rebound 50s.

RICHMOND
B: S.Morris A.Rance T.Chaplin
HB: J.Batchelor C.Newman B.Houli
C: S.Grigg T.Cotchin R.Conca
HF: B.Deledio S.Edwards D.Jackson
F: L.McGuane J.Riewoldt T.Vickery
R: I.Maric D.Martin S.Tuck
I/C: B.Ellis J.King R.Petterd D.Grimes
EMG: B.Griffiths N.Vlastuin C.Knights

In: R.Petterd, D.Grimes
Out: R.Nahas (Omitted), B.Griffiths (Omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES:
BRETT Deledio proved last week against Carlton that you don't have to find a lot of the ball to score well. Managing only 17 disposals, he hit the target 88% of the time and pumped the ball inside 50 six times by foot, with three of these resulting in a goal for the Tigers. He also booted three goals of his own and finished with 116 points.

SYDNEY v GOLD COAST, SATURDAY, 1.45pm at the SCG

SYDNEY
B: R.Shaw H.Grundy N.Smith
HB: L.Roberts-Thomson T.Richards M.Mattner
C: J.McVeigh K.JackL.Jetta
HF: J.Bolton S.ReidR.O'Keefe
F: M.Pyke A.Goodes D.Hannebery
R: S.MumfordJ.Kennedy L.Parker
I/C: C.Bird A.Everitt N.Malceski B.McGlynn
EMG: M.Morton D.Rampe J.White

In: C.Bird , A.Everitt
Out: T.Armstrong (Omitted) , D.Rampe (Omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
JOSH Kennedy dominated against the Suns in Round 18 last season, racking up 33 disposals, of which 21 were won in a contested manner. He also generated nine clearances (three from centre bounces) and booted one goal on his way to 127 points – ranked fifth for the game.

GOLD COAST
B: J.Wilkinson M.Warnock T.Murphy
HB: D.Prestia R.Thompson J.Hutchins
C: M.Rischitelli G.Ablett J.Harbrow
HF: H.Bennell C.Dixon A.Hall
F: L.Russell S.Day S.May
R: Z.Smith K.Hunt D.Swallow
I/C: B.Matera J.O'Meara J.Brennan M.Shaw
EMG: D.Gorringe J.Allen K.Horsley

In: J.Hutchins
Out: G.Broughton (Calf)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
It took JAEGER O'Meara some time to adjust to the tempo of football at the elite level in his debut last week. Managing only five disposals in the opening three quarters, he lifted his output in the final term, collecting seven disposals and 32 points. He finished with a respectable 72 points.

WESTERN BULLDOGS v FREMANTLE at ETIHAD STADIUM from 2.10pm

WESTERN BULLDOGS
B: T.Young D.Morris L.Picken
HB: A.Cooney J.Roughead B.Goodes
C: M.Wallis N.Lower K.Stevens
HF: T.Dickson L.Jones D.Giansiracusa
F: R.Murphy A.Cordy S.Higgins
R: W.Minson R.Griffen T.Liberatore
I/C: D.Cross L.Dahlhaus C.Smith J.Johannisen
EMG: E.Wood J.Macrae L.Markovic

NO CHANGE

SUPERCOACH NOTES
TOM Liberatore stepped up last week in the absence of Matthew Boyd, finishing with 130 points – the second-best of any Bulldogs player. He finished with a team-high 28 disposals, 16 contested possessions, 11 clearances and nine tackles.

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FREMANTLE
B: K.Bradley Z.Dawson M.Johnson
HB: P.Duffield L.McPharlin L.Spurr
C: T.Mzungu M.Barlow C.Pearce
HF: R.Crowley M.Pavlich N.Fyfe
F: H.Crozier C.Mayne M.Walters
R: J.Griffin D.Mundy S.Hill
I/C: D.Pearce N.Suban M.De Boer C.Sutcliffe
EMG: T.Sheridan J.Hannath L.Neale

In: H.Crozier
Out: H.Ballantyne (Suspension)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
DANYLE Pearce starred on his Fremantle debut in Round 1 finishing with 23 disposals, two goals and 130 points. Known for his ability to win the ball in space, it was his inside work that shone against the Eagles, winning an equal career-high 15 contested possessions.

BRISBANE LIONS v ADELAIDE at the GABBA from 4.40pm

BRISBANE LIONS
B: M.Golby D.Merrett R.Lester
HB: J.Adcock J.Patfull E.Yeo
C: D.Zorko T.Rockliff P.Hanley
HF: J.Polkinghorne J.Brown J.Green
F: A.McGrath S.Martin R.Bewick
R: M.Leuenberger D.Rich B.Moloney
I/C: C.Beams P.Karnezis A.Raines J.Redden
EMG: S.Mayes N.McKeever J.Crisp

In: A.Raines , M.Leuenberger , R.Lester
Out: M.Maguire (Calf) , A.Cornelius (Omitted) , B.Longer (Omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES:
MATTHEW Leuenberger played a full match in the NEAFL last week, finishing with 19 disposals, four clearances, five inside 50s and 128 points. With a clash against Sam Jacobs on the cards, the Lions will be keen get him back into the side.

ADELAIDE
L.Brown B.Rutten A.Otten
M.Jaensch D.Talia B.Reilly
N.van Berlo S.Thompson D.Mackay
B.Crouch T.Walker B.Vince
R.Douglas J.Jenkins J.Porplyzia
S.Jacobs P.Dangerfield R.Sloane
M.Wright J.Petrenko I.Callinan R.Henderson
G.Johncock T.Lynch S.McKernan

In: I.Callinan , B.Crouch
Out: G.Johncock (Omitted) , B.Martin (Omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES:
PATRICK Dangerfield had his colours lowered in the season opener against Essendon, managing only 63 points. He was given very little space and when he did have the ball his kicking was woeful, recording a team-low kicking efficiency of 30%. He'll have his work cut out against the Lions as well with Andrew Raines his likely opponent if he's named.

ESSENDON v MELBOURNE at the MCG from 7.40pm

ESSENDON
B: M.Baguley J.Carlisle D.Fletcher
HB: B.Goddard C.Hooker B.Stanton
C: D.Heppell J.Watson A.Davey
HF: S.Crameri M.Hurley D.Zaharakis
F: N.Kommer P.Ryder J.Melksham
R: T.Bellchambers H.Hocking C.Dempsey
I/C: J.Merrett D.Myers M.Hibberd B.Howlett
EMG: W.Hams D.Hille E.Kavanagh

NO CHANGE

SUPERCOACH NOTES
There were no signs of a Brownlow Medal hangover from JOBE Watson against Adelaide. The skipper led the Bombers to a morale boosting win, racking up a game-high 34 disposals on his way to 121 points. He also generated seven clearances and seven inside 50s, while chipping in to score one goal.

MELBOURNE
B: T.Gillies J.Frawley D.Terlich
HB: J.Watts T.McDonald C.Garland
C: J.Grimes J.Viney M.Jones
HF: S.Blease J.Sellar J.Howe
F: C.Sylvia M.Clark S.Byrnes
R: M.Jamar J.McKenzieN.Jones
I/C: J.Toumpas J.Trengove D.Nicholson A.Davey
EMG: D.Rodan C.Pederson J.Spencer

In: A.Davey , D.Terlich , J.Trengove , T.McDonald
Out: D.Rodan (Omitted) , L.Dunn (Hamstring) , L.Tapscott (Omitted) , C.Pederson (Omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
JACK Watts was outstanding against Essendon in Round 10 last season, finishing with 24 disposals, seven marks (three intercepts), seven rebound 50s and 110 points. His ability to read the play shone, recording 13 intercept possessions – four more than any other player on the ground.

PORT ADELAIDE v GWS GIANTS, SATURDAY at 7.40pm at AAMI STADIUM

PORT ADELAIDE
B: Tom Jonas, Alipate Carlile, Cameron O'Shea
HB: Jasper Pittard, Jackson Trengove, Lewis Stevenson
C: Kane Cornes, Travis Boak, Brad Ebert
HF: Paul Stewart, Justin Westhoff, Angus Monfries
F: Chad Wingard, Jay Schulz, Jake Neade
R: Jarrad Redden, Oliver Wines, Hamish Hartlett
I/C: Campbell Heath, Kane Mitchell, Matthew Lobbe, Matthew Broadbent
EMG: Sam Colquhoun, Andrew Moore, Aaron Young

In: Carlile
Out: Moore (omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES:
If HAMISH Hartlett remains injury free this year, then he looms as a boom recruit for any coach. He started strongly against the Demons, finishing with 29 disposals, four clearances, five inside 50s, two goals and 123 points. With the added bonus of dual position eligibility, he has to be considered.

GWS GIANTS
B: A Kennedy T Mohr P Davis
HB: T Bugg S Gilham C Hampton
C: T Scully C Ward W Hoskin-Elliott
HF: S Coniglio J Cameron D Shiel
F: L Sumner J Patton D Smith
R: J Giles A Treloar T Greene
I/C: D Brogan R Palmer L Plowman L Whitfield
EMG: S Frost S Darley S Reid

In: Rhys Palmer
Out: Taylor Adams (hip)

SUPERCOACH NOTES:
Opposition sides are likely to target TOBY Greene after his outstanding debut season. Sydney used Ryan O'Keefe on him effectively last week, restricting him to 11 disposals, one mark, one tackle and 45 points. He can expect to have Kane Cornes by his side this round.

GEELONG v NORTH MELBOURNE, SUNDAY, ETIHAD STADIUM at 1.10pm

GEELONG
B: M.Brown T.LonerganC.Enright
HB: T.Hunt A.Mackie T.Varcoe
C: A.Christensen J.Bartel J.Kelly
HF: M.Duncan S.Motlop B.Smedts
F: J.Podsiadly T.Hawkins H.Taylor
R: T.West J.Selwood P.Chapman
I/C: J.Corey J.Caddy M.Stokes, G.Horlin-Smith J.Thurlow J.Stringer M.Blicavs

In: J.Corey , J.Kelly , M.Brown , J.Stringer , J.Thurlow
Out: J.Rivers (Knee) , J.Murdoch (Hand)

SUPERCOACH NOTES:
If it wasn't for JIMMY Bartel's strong finish to Monday's match against Hawthorn, then his score would have been unacceptable. He collected 10 of his 22 disposals for the match in the final term, with 43 of his 88 points scored in that quarter as well.

NORTH MELBOURNE
B: S.McMahon S.Thompson M.Firrito
HB: J.Macmillan N.Grima S.Atley
C: A.Mullett R.Bastinac S.Gibson
HF: K.Harper R.Tarrant D.Wells
F: L.Thomas D.Petrie L.Hansen
R: T.Goldstein A.Swallow J.Ziebell
I/C: L.Anthony B.Jacobs B.Cunnington, L.Adams L.Greenwood T.Hine M.Daw
In: S.McMahon , L.Greenwood , M.Daw , T.Hine
Out: S.Wright (Knee)

SUPERCOACH NOTES
ANDREW Swallow is clearly one of the safest premium midfielders going around, playing in 89 consecutive matches – the second-longest streak of any player in the AFL. He dominated in the season opener against Collingwood, finishing with 34 disposals, nine tackles, seven clearances and a team-high 137 points.

COLLINGWOOD v CARLTON, SUNDAY, MCG FROM 3.20pm

COLLINGWOOD
B: N.Brown N.Maxwell B.Reid
HB: A.Toovey H.Shaw H.O'Brien
C: S.Sidebottom D.Swan P.Seedsman
HF: J.Elliott T.Cloke Q.Lynch
F: B.Sinclair T.Goldsack S.Dwyer
R: D.Jolly S.Pendlebury J.Blair
I/C: M.Clarke J.Frost B.Johnson B.Kennedy B.Macaffer J.Russell J.Thomas

In: H.Shaw , B.Kennedy , P.Seedsman

SUPERCOACH NOTES:
SCOTT Pendlebury will be looking to redeem himself against Carlton this week in what will be his 150th AFL match. He was nullified by Andrew Carrazzo in Round 3 last season, recording only 10 disposals form the 63 minutes they were matched up.

CARLTON
B: C.Yarran M.Jamison L.Henderson
HB: Z.Tuohy D.Armfield B.Gibbs
C: K.Simpson A.Carrazzo M.Robinson
HF: C.Judd A.Walker J.Garlett
F: T.Bell L.Casboult S.Rowe
R: M.Kreuzer M.Murphy B.McLean
I/C: J.Bootsma D.Buckley M.Davies N.Duigan J.Laidler K.Lucas S.White

In: S.Rowe , S.White , J.Laidler , M.Davies , D.Buckley , T.Bell
Out: E.Betts (Jaw) , A.Joseph (Omitted) , S.Hampson (appendix removed)

SUPERCOACH NOTES:
CHRIS Judd has excelled against the Magpies since 2010, averaging 114 points per game – ranked No.1 at the club. Averaging 30 disposals, 15 contested possessions, seven clearances and six inside 50s per match, he dominated in the two meetings last season, racking up 35 and 32 disposals respectively.

WEST COAST v HAWTHORN, SUNDAY, 4.40pm at PATERSONS STADIUM

WEST COAST
B: A.Selwood D.Glass M.Brown
HB: S.Hurn W.Schofield B.Waters
C: A.Embley M.Priddis A.Gaff
HF: J.Cripps JJ.Kennedy A.Hams
F: C.Masten J.Darling J.Hill
R: D.Cox S.Selwood L.Shuey
I/C: J.Brennan S.Butler B.Sheppard C.Sinclair As.Smith B.Dalziell B.Wilson

In: S.Butler , M.Brown , B.Dalziell , J.Brennan , B.Wilson , C.Sinclair
Out: M.LeCras (arm) , E.Mackenzie (Hamstring) , S.Lycett (Omitted)

SUPERCOACH NOTES:
MARK LeCras' wretched injury run continues after he suffered a fractured arm against Fremantle – an injury that will sideline him up to one month. He impressed in the lead up, finishing with 14 disposals, eight tackles, two goals and 91 points. A straight swap for team mate Josh Kennedy is your best option.

HAWTHORN
B: R.Schoenmakers J.Gibson B.Guerra
HB: G.Birchall B.Stratton S.Burgoyne
C: I.Smith S.Mitchell B.Hill
HF: C.Rioli L.Franklin P.Puopolo
F: J.Gunston J.Roughead L.Breust
R: M.Bailey B.Sewell J.Lewis
I/C: L.Hodge J.Anderson D.Hale S.Savage J.Simpkin M.Spangher L.Shiels

In: L.Hodge , J.Simpkin , M.Spangher

SUPERCOACH NOTES:
SAM Mitchell found plenty of the ball last week against Geelong, winning 24 of his 37 disposals in the defensive half. He was the top ranked player for the match courtesy of his 141 points – 19 more than any other Hawthorn player.

REPLAY THE CHAT WITH SAM LANDSBERGER BELOW

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Biggest footy grudge matches

Glenn Archer clashes with former teammate Wayne Carey. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

THINK Malthouse v Buckley is big? Check out our top 10 footy grudge matches.

The build-up all week has been huge, and it's no secret why. Master v apprentice. Coach v assistant. Coach grumpy at being forced to step down from one club who now works for that club's arch enemy coaching against the guy who replaced him.

Nathan Buckley will coach against his former coach and mentor Mick Malthouse for the first time on Sunday, and the pair haven't exactly been best mates since Eddie McGuire somehow got Mick to agree to hand the job to Bucks at the end of 2011.

Where does this weekend rank in the great footy rivalries? Check out our selection below and you be the judge.

WAYNE CAREY v NORTH MELBOURNE, 2003

A premiership captain playing for a new team against his flag teammates would be big at any time. Throw in the fact he had to quit the club after he was busted having an affair with his vice-captain's wife and you have a powder keg waiting to go off. Kangaroos hard man Glenn Archer won a tete-a-tete with his former skipper in the second quarter, feigning a punch that made Carey flinch. But the Duck had the last laugh, kicking four goals in a rare Crows away win.

ROSS LYON v ST KILDA, 2012

St Kilda was stunned when the man who almost took the club to an elusive second premiership walked out to join the Dockers at the end of 2011, defending himself against claims of treason by declaring he had never used the word "loyalty" to his St Kilda charges. Saints fans got the chance to let Lyon know how they felt when Freo played the Saints at Etihad Stadium in Round 4 last season. The night didn't end well for them when the Dockers stormed home for a 13-point win. "It was an emotionally tough night in some ways. I take no joy beating the St Kilda football club other than getting the four (premiership) points,'' Lyon said. "I'd moved on. I think I said it was a sideshow.''

Ross Lyon walks past angry St Kilda fans. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

PETER MOORE v COLLINGWOOD, 1983

Moore says some Collingwood fans - including Eddie McGuire - still haven't forgiven him for taking an offer worth a reported $300,000 for five years to quit the Pies and join Melbourne in December 1982 - a deal that made him the highest-paid player in the VFL. By chance, his first game for the Demons was against Collingwood at the MCG in Round 1, 1983. The Magpies' banner read "No Moore trouble at Collingwood"; other fans were less subtle - a sign in the stands screamed "Moore filth". "As a player, I never really understood how passionate the fans were and how strongly they felt about the club and the players," he said later. "It was something I only fully understood later." Moore played below his best that day and the Magpies won, but he went on to win a second Brownlow in 1984.

KEVIN SHEEDY v NORTH MELBOURNE MARSHMALLOW WAR, 1998

Kevin Sheedy, then Bombers coach, responded to criticism from the Roos about Essendon's game plan by labelling North executives Greg Miller and Mark Dawson as marshmallows. Miller was the white one and Dawson the pink one, apparently. When the teams faced each other soon after, the Kangaroos came from behind to win by 22 points and fans pelted Sheedy with marshmallows after the match.

TONY LIBERATORE v RICHMOND, 2001

Danny Frawley set the stage by saying after a bitter loss in 2001: "Richmond Football Club are a really proud club and it will be payback time at some stage." Spud was filthy at the Dogs and Tony Liberatore, who had forced Tigers skipper Matthew Knights from the field with blood streaming from his forehead. Frawley was fined $1000 for the comment and Libba was rubbed out for five weeks after Richmond players broke the players' "code of silence" at the tribunal to dob him in. When the teams met again there was some pushing and shoving before the bounce before Richmond exacted revenge by snatching a close win after Nathan Brown - soon to join the Tigers - was denied a free kick for a high tackle in the dying minutes.

Tony Liberatore, Wayne Campbell and Matthew Knights do battle early in the first quarter. Picture: Kelly Barnes Source: Herald Sun

CAMPBELL BROWN v ESSENDON, 2010

There was already plenty of heat in this rivalry from the 1980s and the infamous "line in the sand" game in 2004. It sparked again in the final round of 2009 when Matthew Lloyd knocked out Brad Sewell. A fuming Alastair Clarkson had to be restrained on the boundary line and in a post-match interview Hawks hard man Campbell Brown described Lloyd as "one of the biggest snipers in the game" and said "his time is coming". The AFL chastised Channel 10 for using footage of those incidents to promote the next meeting of the two clubs, on a Friday night in May and Brown never got a chance to face Lloyd on the field - the Bombers full-forward had retired at the end of the season. The match itself was a fizzer, with the Bombers winning by 43 points.

CARLTON v BRUISE-FREE MELBOURNE, 2011

Brett Ratten claimed Mitch Robinson was talking about areas the Blues needed to improve on when he said after an easy win in May, 2011: "They didn't want a bruise game." That didn't fool anyone, least of all the Demons who said it was a sign of disrespect, coach Dean Bailey adding the club had "long memories", setting the stage for a rematch later in the season. The build-up for that game was slightly overshadowed by events of the previous weekend - when the Dees lost to Geelong by 186 points and Bailey got the chop. Stand-in coach Todd Viney did slightly better against the Blues - Carlton won by 76.

CHRIS JUDD v WEST COAST, 2008

The Eagles banner before the match read "we could rub it in, but we're better than that". The crowd then proceeded to boo the new Carlton captain every time he went near the ball in his first match in Perth after switching from the Eagles. Judd admitted he had to stop himself from grabbing water bottles from West Coast trainers but he managed OK, picking up 24 touches and helping his new club to a big win.

MARK YEATES v DERMOTT BRERETON, 1989

Yeates' hit on the Hawthorn hard man remains one of the most enduring memories of the brutal 1989 Grand Final, but the origins of the incident are less well known. Yeates revealed recently to the Geelong Advertiser that Brereton had "fixed me up nicely" when the two clubs met in Round 6 that season. "What goes around, comes around," he said. Brereton went into more detail: "Did he have the motivation? Yes. I grabbed him savagely in the nurries earlier in the year and (as) I was being chaired off and carted off by the trainers I told him he wouldn't need them anymore, and he had a very beautiful-looking wife." Shame Channel 7 didn't know about that for its pre-game promos.

Dermott Brereton after being crunched Mark Yeates at the opening bounce. Source: Herald Sun

GARY ABLETT v GEELONG, 2011

Cats fans were devastated when Ablett left to join the Suns and couldn't wait to play against him the next year. In the lead-up to the first Geelong v Gold game, Ablett wrote in his newspaper column: "Don't know if I will be targeted, but I predict they will play a few tricks." As it turned out, there were no fireworks - not even a misfiring cracker. The Cats didn't bother to tag Ablett and cruised to an easy win. After the game they joked with their former teammate. He even got a hug from James Kelly. Where was the hate? Disgusting, really.

Gary Ablett with former Geelong teammates after the game. Picture: Michael Dodge Source: Herald Sun

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Dee-fiant Neeld ignores backlash

AFL 360 panelists David King and Mark Maclure slam Melbourne Demons' recruitment for 2013, saying the club will not improve until Mark Neeld is gone.

Demons coach Mark Neeld says vicious critics can boo all they want. Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE coach Mark Neeld says he will ignore widespread criticism and supporter backlash as he continues to rebuild his ailing football club.

Shell-shocked after Sunday's shameful performance against Port Adelaide, Neeld has ignored the media this week and concentrated on replicating the high intensity of training on match day.

Emphasising he had a job to do, he admitted he heard the booing at three-quarter time on Sunday, but it did not faze him.

"I heard it," Neeld said.

"But the coach's main concern during the game is the players.

"It's not great to hear it ... and that's how they dealt with an unacceptable performance.

"My way of dealing with it is to sit down with the players and have heart-to-hearts, review the game, explain how we want to play, go back through training ... that's how I've got to deal with it.

Read Mark Robinson's full interview with Mark Neeld here

"If people chose to boo, that's their choice. That will never get in the road of what we are trying to achieve."

"I will simply state that what we've seen over summer and at training is not what we saw on Sunday," Neeld said.

Neeld was understanding of fans who might turn their backs on Melbourne.

"Unfortunately, if you're not going to turn up and watch us play through this period, that is your decision, no problem, but you will always be welcomed back."

Neeld refused to give guarantees about the performance this week, but did make promises about preparation and professionalism.

He said the game against Essendon on Saturday night was about effort and work ethic, and not the about winning.

"It's about how we go about it," Neeld said.

"We might get beaten by Essendon on the weekend, but it will be the way in which we approach the game which will be important.

"Clubs in rebuilding phase cannot use the number of victories (to judge), it's about the manner in which we go about it and that's what was disappointing about Sunday. We didn't go about it in the right manner.

"We're doing what we can to instil in very young players the correct manner in which to play.

"We can promise that the attitude of our players to train and to prepare is becoming a highly competitive AFL standard.

"And I can inform supporters today's training session was of AFL standard and quick and there was energy there.

And, yes, there were a few terrible kicks, but I saw players make mistakes and have a crack at the next one."

Neeld did not make excuses, but pointed out last Sunday's game was "game one, year two of a rebuild of a rebuild which never got off the ground".

He said training loads had increased, as had the players' appetite to compete at the highest level.

"Last year they were driving to training to survive the day ... now they are driving to training to attack training."

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Cold breakfast for Mick, Bucks

Nathan Buckley and Mick Malthouse shake hands at today's Peter McCallum Cancer Centre breakfast. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

MICK MALTHOUSE and Nathan Buckley were civil but did not talk to each other at a charity breakfast at the MCG this morning.

The Carlton and Collingwood coaches joined their respective captains, Marc Murphy and Nick Maxwell, on an on-stage panel in the MCG Dining Room as part of a fund-raiser for the Peter McCallum Cancer Centre.

They briefly shook hands before the panel discussion got under way, but did not have a conversation before or after the breakfast.

After the panel, Malthouse turned on his heel and walked off the stage as Buckley approached him. The two coaches left immediately -- Buckley via the lift, Malthouse down the escalator -- to attend their club's respective training sessions.

During the panel, hosted by former Collingwood full-forward Brian Taylor, Malthouse said the tension between himself and Collingwood was "more media and supporter-driven''.

Buckley 'has empathy' for Malthouse

Malthouse coached the Pies to the 2010 flag then lost the 2011 decider to Geelong, then sat out of coaching for a year before taking over the reigns at Carlton this season.

"I do know some of the players who will be playing for Collingwood,'' Malthouse said, "but it's amazing that 12 months out what's happened is that there's a massive change in personnel t the football club -- and that goes for every football club. So it's not the same football club that I was at.

"But if I focus on that, it's the very thing that I coach against, which is individuality. It's all about and must be about the team. So I've got to make sure that any emotions I have are all directed towards our team playing as well as they can.''

TAB's Adam Hamilton previews the upcoming round 2Collingwood vs Carlton game.

Buckley, who captained the Pies for eight years under Malthouse's coaching before working under him as an assistant coach, downplayed the significance of the Pies coming up against their former mentor.

"The rivalry exists longer than any of us sitting here have been around, and that's a great thing to be a part of,'' Buckley said.

Picture gallery: Pies make a splash at training

"We don't have a lot to go on, Carlton under Mick. But obviously having played under him and coached with him, I've got a fair understanding of the way he sees the game of footy.

"We all know what Mick Malthouse-coached sides look like. Carlton, as Mick has detailed, are a work in progress, and how much of the residual is still there and how much of the new stuff is still to come through, we'll see as the year progresses.

"My recent experience with Carlton last year, and this group of Carlton players, is that they knocked us over twice. So Brett Ratten had a fair understanding of us and had a way to get around our strengths, so we need to get get around Carlton's.''

Maxwell said the players were more interested in the match than personal rivalries.

"We've got expectations on ourselves, where we want to finish this year ...,'' Maxwell said.

"I know everyone wants to build it up and make it sound like it's all about Mick and it's all about Bucks and about our coaches, but it's about who gets the four points.''

Buckley refused to buy into speculation about players returning from injury, other than to say Dayne Beams was "zero'' chance of returning from a quad injury this Sunday.

Dave Hughes and Peter Helliar tell us why they love to hate each other's footy teams.

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Scott grateful for Bucks' apology

North Melbourne coach Brad Scott. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

NORTH Melbourne coach Brad Scott has revealed his Magpies counterpart Nathan Buckley phoned to apologise for his post-match criticism of the Lindsay Thomas bump.

Scott said today he considered the issue to be "dead" after Buckley called to apologise to both Thomas and himself during the week.

Buckley sparked a war of words after he called Thomas to account over his heavy clash with Magpie defender Ben Reid last Sunday, describing the bump as "pretty average".

Thomas was cleared by the match review panel for the heavy bump, which left Reid concussed.

But Scott today gave credit to Buckley for his apology.

"It's important that we all move on, but I think Nathan has made a retraction of his remarks and he forced me to defend one of my players which I will do 100 per cent of the time," Scott said.

"I think that when you cast aspersions over opposition players it is never a good thing, but when that criticism is wrong it makes it even worse.

"To Nathan's eternal credit, he has called me, he has apologised to me, which I didn't think he had to do, but he apologised to me and to our football club.

"But more importantly he rang Lindsay Thomas and apologised to him. I think that speaks volumes for the type of person he is."

TAB's Adam Hamilton previews the upcoming round 2 Geelong vs North Melbourne game.

Scott said he felt no confusion over the rule regarding accidental head clashes and said there would be no change in his philosophy in training.

"I'm in no doubt as to what the rule is and I think the match review panel adjudicated it as they said they would and the way they did last year," Scott said.

"So I am not confused. But there is no doubt that when you choose to bump, you take a risk."

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Tigers try to find room for Vlastuin

Richmond's first-round draft pick Nick Vlastuin is pushing for senior selection. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

RICHMOND coach Damien Hardwick says top draft pick Nick Vlastuin is AFL match ready, but he's no certainty to debut against St Kilda on Friday night.

Hardwick said Vlastuin's omission from their Round 1 side was because of the Tigers new-found depth.

"The coach is very excited about his prospects as well (as the fans),'' Hardwick said.

"It's a tough one. Funnily enough, he's probably the most ready Round 1 draft pick we've had, but because of the depth of our side, the talent that's available at the moment, he's just missed out.

"He'll force his way in, I've got no doubt. He was very good at the weekend again. Whether he makes his debut this week, three weeks' time, he's going to play at some stage.''

Hardwick said he would have to make some "tough calls'' at match committee.

"No doubt you like to reward winning form,'' Hardwick said of team selection.

"In saying that we've got players like (Dylan) Grimes that are available to play, Ricky Petterd will put up his hand, Chris Knights, Nick Vlastuin, some quality players as well.

"We've got some options.

"It's very important (depth), if you don't play well, you go out.

"Whether we make changes this week or not we'll certainly make a few tough calls in match committee this afternoon.

"It's probably something that we haven't had for a period of time. It's certainly good when you go to our Coburg side and you watch them play and you certainly see a lot of players that are capable of playing AFL football.

"We've got ourselves in a good situation.''

Hardwick said he had addressed the last quarter of Richmond's five-point Round 1 win against Carlton, when the Tigers almost let a 36-point three-quarter time lead slip.

"We've just got to make sure we don't take that form into quarter one on Friday night,'' he said.
 

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We just didn't turn up: Craig

Neil Craig and Mark Neeld at Melbourne training. Picture: Tim Carrafa Source: Herald Sun

NEIL Craig has joined the chorus of criticism of Melbourne's insipid Round 1 loss to Port Adelaide.

The Demons' director of sports performance used his first video on the club's website to analyse a "really poor performance" against the inexperienced Power.

Craig said only co-captain Jack Grimes deserved to be spared, claiming his teammates simply didn't turn up to play.

"For me it was a confirmation of the importance of bringing to the game a level of effort, intensity, competitive spirit, call it what you like, but clearly that wasn't on show and that was the most disappointing aspect of our performance," he said.

10 things wrong with Melbourne

"That's the No.1 priority of any club because your gameplan, how you want to move the ball and all your structures are heavily underpinned by players bringing that competitive spirit to the table, and that certainly wasn't there.

"It's the performance we've produced. It's now our responsibility to change that with Round 2 coming up against Essendon. In the end it will be about our actions and the way we respond (that matters), to win back some trust from our members and supporters."

Craig said Grimes was thriving on the captaincy.

We lack leadership: Watts

"Jack's performance was one of the few bright spots or highlights of the weekend," he said.

"I thought his performance, in a really tough game, was exceptional and on top of that his leadership qualities ... the way he tried to drag other players along with him, was outstanding."

Stats make Neeld eat his words
 

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'Nothing but respect for Mick'

Magpies coach Nathan Buckley says he has nothing but respect for former mentor Mick Malthouse. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD coach Nathan Buckley has played down suggestions of a rift with Carlton coach Mick Malthouse ahead of Sunday's blockbuster encounter.

"There's plenty of people keen to drum that up and to try to make it an adversarial relationship,'' Buckley said today.

"I've got nothing but respect for Mick.

"I learnt a lot from him, played under him for a number of years as his captain and worked under him as an assistant coach in the plan to eventually become senior coach.

"We've had many frank discussions, not in recent times, (but) we've had many frank discussions about that situation.''

Buckley said he did not think there would be any pre-game acknowledgment between the two coaches before Sunday's clash.

Jon Ralph: Mick's private war against Buckley

"I very rarely go to any of the opposition coaches on game day,'' he said.

"I caught up with Mick at the coaches' AGM last week, I will see him tomorrow morning at the Peter MacCallum breakfast and I am sure, watching the TV shows, I will see plenty of his head between now and Sunday.''

Buckley inadvertently brought some humour to the build-up when asked if the two coaches had had any recent conversations.

"He's the coach of Collingwood,'' he said of Malthouse before correcting himself.  ``He was ... he's the coach of Carlton.''

Dayne Beams (quad) will miss Sunday's clash and could be on the sidelines for a few more weeks, but Buckley remained confident Ben Reid (concussion) and Ben Johnson (thigh) will play.

Picture gallery: Pies make a splash at training

Heath Shaw (illness) is a certain starter.

Buckley refused to rule out Dale Thomas, who missed yesterday's training session, but played 75 per cent of last week's VFL match.

Clinton Young, Alex Fasolo, Paul Seedsman and Andrew Krakouer are also in the mix.

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The Barometer: Round 2

Collingwood star Dale Thomas collected 25 disposals in the Magpies reserves match against AIS-AFL Academy squad. Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: Herald Sun

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

ADELAIDE

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

ON THE BLOCK: It's been a while since the Crows' Round 1 shocker but a few players will be nervous, including Brodie Martin, Jared Petrenko and Andy Otten. Young defender Luke Brown was on crutches after the match but should be OK after scans cleared him of any serious injury.

ON THE CUSP: Mini draftee Brad Crouch is banging down the door after picking up 31 disposals for Wests in the SANFL. Other state league standouts include Sam Kerridge (21 disposals, nine tackles) and Tom Lynch (30 disposals, 11 marks, 11 clearances). Sam Shaw also played and could push for a spot against the Lions.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Crows need to regroup and what seemed a friendly early draw suddenly looks a lot more precarious with Port Adelaide and the Bulldogs to follow Brisbane. If Adelaide wants to be a top-four side, it will have to be 3-1 after those matches.

BRISBANE LIONS

INJURIES
Simon Black (knee) Indefinite
Jesse O'Brien (groin) 1 week
Brent Staker (knee) 3 weeks
Stephen Wrigley (knee) TBA
Matt Maguire (leg) TBA

ON THE BLOCK: James Polkinghorne managed just six disposals at a horrible 17 per cent efficiency against the Bulldogs and could be in strife. He had plenty of underperforming mates, with Ash McGrath, Aaron Cornelius and Elliot Yeo all struggling to have any kind of impact. In fact, there weren't many Lions who could say they should walk into the team for Round 2.

ON THE CUSP: Matthew Leuenberger was listed in the best players for the Lions reserves, who opened their NEAFL season with an 87-point hammering of Morningside. Former Hawk Jordan Lisle kicked six goals while young defenders Jordan Burke and Justin Clarke earned the praise of coach Leigh Harding. Jared Polec and Todd Banfield were also good.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: Don't expect Michael Voss to make wholesale changes to the team that won the NAB Cup final two weeks ago. Polkinghorne could slip out and Leuenberger should return to give Billy Longer a hand against Sam Jacobs at the Gabba on Saturday.

Matthew Leuenberger (second from right) taps the ball down during a Brisbane Lionsintra-club match at Coorparoo. Picture: Peter Wallis Source: The Courier-Mail

CARLTON

INJURIES
Eddie Betts (broken jaw) TBA
Shaun Hampson (appendix) TBA
Jaryd Cachia (hamstring) TBA
Andrew Collins (ankle) TBA
David Ellard (hamstring) TBA
Andrew McInnes (knee) 14 weeks
Jarrad Waite (calf) 2-3 weeks
Mitch Robinson (concussion) assess

ON THE BLOCK: The Blues suffered a double blow today with the news Betts and Hampson will both miss the huge showdown against Collingwood. Levi Casboult struggled up forward against the Tigers, managing just two kicks while giving away three free kicks and spraying his only shot at goal about 25m to the right. Aaron Joseph started as the sub but travelled at just 57 per cent efficiency when he came on. Mitch Robinson was seeing stars after crashing into Ty Vickery but the Blues say he'll be right for Round 2.

ON THE CUSP: Robbie Warnock seems a certainty to replace Hampson, while Sam Rowe was unlucky to miss a Round 1 start and could push out Casboult. The Northern Blues suffered a heavy loss to Coburg in their final VFL practice match with Matthew Watson among the few AFL-listed players taking part.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Blues almost pinched a win against the Tigers and changes are more likely to involve getting the new game plan worked out than personnel. Mick would love to be able to call on Jarrad Waite but he's still a couple of weeks away.

SuperCoach is free and you could win $1000 every week. It's not too late to join!

COLLINGWOOD

INJURIES
Dayne Beams (quad) TBA
Heath Shaw (ill) available
Ben Reid (concussion) test
Ben Johnson (corked thigh) test
Alex Fasolo (hamstring) test
Jackson Ramsay (groin) 1-2 weeks
Luke Ball (knee) 2-3 weeks
Alan Didak (hamstring) 2-3 weeks
Brodie Grundy (back) 4-6 weeks
Michael Hartley (shoulder) 6 weeks
Lachlan Keefe (knee) 6-8 weeks
Tim Broomhead (glandular fever) 8 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Reid should be fine but Johnson is doubtful and the Pies say the severity of the injury Beams suffered at training on Saturday is not yet clear. In the unlikely event the Pies have more players to come in than go out, sub Sam Dwyer and late inclusion Josh Thomas could be the unlucky omissions.

ON THE CUSP: Shaw will return after a bout of gastro. Dale Thomas and Andrew Krakouer played in a practice match against the AIS-AFL Academy last Thursday night and pulled up OK but might need another week. Clinton Young and Alex Fasolo are outside chances to return.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: Nathan Buckley joked after Sunday's win against North Melbourne that he must have walked under a ladder over summer. But the Pies are on the board and will have the welcome headache of trying to find room for the likes of Shaw, Thomas and Fasolo either this week or next. Beams is a worry, however.

ESSENDON

INJURIES
Nil.

ON THE BLOCK: Any Bomber would be stiff to get dropped after their stunning win against Adelaide. If you had to pick one, maybe Mark Baguley could be in danger. Patrick Ryder and Stewart Crameri would want to lift their output.

ON THE CUSP: Everyone. The Bombers have a clean bill of health – a far cry from this time last season – following Jason Winderlich's successful return from groin soreness in the VFL on Friday. Winderlich played a half and was lively in the Bombers' big win against Sandringham. He'll need more match fitness before being considered for senior selection. Scott Gumbleton was the dominant forward on the ground, with father-son recruit Joe Daniher kicking one goal. The Bombers opted not to play David Zaharakis, preparing him with intense training instead.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Demons are Essendon's bogey side, winning the past three clashes between the two sides – amazingly, the Bombers haven't beaten Melbourne since 2009. That will count for nothing on Saturday night though, with a trip to Perth in Round 3 to face the Dockers shaping as Essendon's next serious challenge.

Bendigo Bombers v Casey Scorpions. Jason Winderlich Picture: Scott Chris Source: HWT Image Library

FREMANTLE

INJURIES
Anthony Morabito (knee) TBC
Aaron Sandilands (hamstring) 8-12 weeks
Zac Clarke (Achilles) test
Matthew Pavlich (hand) test

ON THE BLOCK: Cameron Sutcliffe is the only player who could be dropped on form after the Dockers' impressive Round 1 win. He started in the subs vest and had just two disposals against West Coast. Pavlich is available after a hospital visit to fix split webbing on his left hand.

ON THE CUSP: The Dockers have close to their best 22 available apart from Aaron Sandilands, but they will have to get used to life without the big man. Garrick Ibbotson picked up 20 disposals in the WAFL at the weekend and Hayden Crozier booted three goals for Peel Thunder, while Tom Sheridon, Jesse Crichton and Viv Michie could all come under consideration if Ross Lyon wants to make changes.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: An assignment against the Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium doesn't look quite as straightforward as it did a few days ago. But the Dockers won't fear the venue – they played at Etihad twice last season, for two wins (against Melbourne and North Melbourne). Ross Lyon likes a stable 22 so don't expect many changes.

SuperCoach Round 1 studs and duds

GEELONG

INJURIES
Hamish McIntosh (knee) indefinite
Josh Hunt (glandular fever) indefinite
Daniel Menzel (knee) 2 weeks
Dawson Simpson (back) Indefinite
Jed Bews (foot) TBA
George Burbury (foot) TBA
Joel Corey (hip soreness) test
Steve Johnson (knee) 3 weeks
Josh Walker (shoulder) TBA

ON THE BLOCK: How could you fault the Cats? Prized recruit Josh Caddy was substituted out of the match at three-quarter time yesterday with 15 disposals at 47 per cent efficiency. Ruckman Trent West was nursed through the match and should benefit from the outing. Jared Rivers (knee) and Billie Smedts (winded) played out the game despite spending some time off the ground.

ON THE CUSP: James Kelly will be a walk-up start after serving his one-match ban carried over from last year's elimination final. Veteran Joel Corey starred in the VFL last week and must also be considered for the trip west. Mitch Brown was the VFL standout with 34 disposals.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Skipper Joel Selwood was the difference yesterday and there is no reason why he can't repeat the dose against North Melbourne on Sunday. Twin talls Tom Hawkins and James Podsiadly will provide plenty of headaches for the Kangaroos defenders. Paul Chapman slaughtered the Roos in the NAB Cup last month and could just as easily do it again. Add veterans Kelly and Corey to the mix and the Cats should be 2-0 by Sunday afternoon.

GOLD COAST

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

ON THE BLOCK: Hard to find any candidates after Gold Coast's best win in its short existence. Brandon Matera burned after coming on as the sub after replacing a cramping Karmichael Hunt. Jaeger O'Meara took a while to warm up but looked every bit an AFL player when he was linking up with Gary Ablett out of the middle in the final quarter.

ON THE CUSP: The Suns reserves recorded a 126-point win in Saturday night's curtain-raiser, with former high jumper Josh Hall kicking four goals and Tom Nicholls three. Prodigy Jack Martin – who, like O'Meara last year, was recruited as a 17-year-old and can't play seniors this year – was best afield.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: Gold Coast couldn't be in better shape but the reigning premier at the SCG is a bridge too far. After that comes the Q-Clash against Brisbane then Port Adelaide at home and GWS in Canberra – it's not beyond the realms of possibility the Suns could be 3-1 after the first month of the season.

GWS

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

ON THE BLOCK: If Kevin Sheedy continues his rotation policy of last season there are several names to choose from, despite the Giants' respectable loss to Sydney. Adam Kennedy and Taylor Adams are most likely to earn a rest against Port.

ON THE CUSP: The Giants' reserves also went down the Swans, but were unlucky to lose after having seven more scoring shots. Draftee Kristian Jaksch kicked four goals and Setanta O'hAilpin kicked two, while Rhys Palmer and Sam Reid were standouts in the midfield.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: GWS travels to AAMI Stadium on Saturday night to play Port Adelaide and will give themselves some sort of chance, hoping some of the kids who starred for the Power in Round 1 have a downer the next weekend. The Giants will get their own crack at Melbourne in Round 4 which shapes as a huge match for both clubs.

HAWTHORN

INJURIES
Brian Lake (calf) test
Michael Osborne (knee) test
Matthew Suckling (knee) season
Brendan Whitecross (knee) 10 weeks
Alex Woodward (knee) season
Xavier Ellis (calf) 4 weeks
Luke Hodge (fitness) 3 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Substitute Jed Anderson did enough his debut to warrant a second crack at the big time. The midfielder showed dash when activated collecting six disposals including two rebound-50s in just over a quarter of play. Liam Shiels struggled after copping a knock to the knee early in the match. Forward Jack Gunston was hardly sighted while Bradley Hill ran out of legs after a blistering start.

ON THE CUSP: Brian Lake was a late withdrawal yesterday and must get through training to play on Sunday. Kyle Cheney and Jonathan Simpkin would have to train the house down to come into calculations. Skipper Luke Hodge emerged unscathed from a VFL practice match last week and is on track to make his return in Round 3-4. Small forward Michael Osborne is expected to make his return via the VFL.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: It doesn't get any easier for Alastair Clarkson's men, who now face the toughest trip in football - the Eagles in Perth. The Hawks haven't won in the west since their 2008 premiership season. Back spearheads Lance Franklin and Jarryd Roughead to bounce back after their forgettable performances against the Cats yesterday. Keen on watching livewire Brad Hill run amok on the wide expanses of Paterson's Stadium.

Former Bulldog Brian Lake is hoping to win a premiership with Hawhtorn. Picture: Michael Dodge/Getty Images Source: Getty Images

MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Rohan Bail (concussion) 1 week
Chris Dawes (hamstring) test
Mitch Clark (ankle) test

ON THE BLOCK: How much room have we got? Seven Demons failed to reach double-figures in the disposals column on Sunday including James Sellar (six), Luke Tapscott (seven), Tom Gillies (nine), Jimmy Toumpas (nine) and Jack Watts (seven). Is it too early for the coach to make a statement? One positive is Mitch Clark says he'll be right after coming off with a foot injury against Port Adelaide.

ON THE CUSP: Co-captain Jack Trengove will be back after getting another full VFL practice match under his belt. James Magner and Dean Terlich won plenty of the ball against Box Hill while Max Gawn played his first game back from a long-term hamstring injury. Chris Dawes was close last week and the Demons could roll the dice this weekend.

Al PATON'S FORECAST: The Dees have plenty of problems but thankfully injuries aren't one of them. The match committee has to make a call on whether to stick with the team that showed so little in Round 1 and put the acid on those players to turn it around, or swing the axe immediately. Either way, it's hard to see Melbourne toppling Essendon despite a recent good record against the Bombers.

NORTH MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Nil

ON THE BLOCK: Kieran Harper's attack on the ball is second to none but the young speedster must find a way to get more of the footy. Harper laid seven tackles, second only to Andrew Swallow (nine), which should hold him in good stead. Sam Wright enjoyed a solid NAB Cup campaign but faded badly against the Magpies. Liam Anthony was used as the substitute and got plenty of it once given a crack.

ON THE CUSP: Former Gold Coast defender Taylor Hine put his hand up for selection collecting 23 disposals for North's VFL affiliate Werribee last Saturday. Big Majak Daw kicked two goals pinch-hitting in the ruck with mature-aged recruit Daniel Currie. Levi Greenwood and Jordan Gysberts got plenty of it and could come into calculations. Suspended defender Scott McMahon is a certainty to line up against Geelong on Sunday.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: North had a golden opportunity to knock off Collingwood missing up to eight of its best players and yet failed. Too much was left to too few with usual suspects Swallow and Daniel Wells at the forefront of the Kangaroos' fightback. Drew Petrie had his colours lowered but boasts the class to respond. Rookie Aaron Mullett was a revelation picking up 22 disposals across half-back. Hard-nosed midfielders Leigh Adams and Sam Gibson struggled to make an impact while Shaun Atley only showed glimpses of his best. Lindsay Thomas was the star with four goals and will be available after escaping suspension for his bump on Ben Reid.

PORT ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Alipate Carlile (hamstring) - assess
Brendon Ah Chee (knee) - assess
Brett Ebert (adductor) - 1-2 weeks
Nick Salter (foot) - 3-4 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: There was barely a player who didn't contribute to Port's stunning Round 1 success, with Kane Mitchell unlucky to be handed the subs vest. He should keep his place although Port has just about a full list to choose from for its home clash against GWS.

ON THE CUSP: Defender Alipate Carlile is expected to get through training this week and will be available for selection, but Brett Ebert is out after tearing his adductor in the SANFL. Former skipper Dom Cassisi made a successful return from a calf injury but might have to wait to earn a recall, while Robbie Gray and John Butcher also got through the opening round after returning from long-term injuries.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: Port should go into the Round 3 Showdown against Adelaide undefeated, and they have Gold Coast the week after that. With no serious injury concerns, new coach Ken Hinkley only has to worry about how to fit all the players he wants into his best 22.

RICHMOND

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

ON THE BLOCK: Not many. Brandon Ellis was subbed off against Carlton but would be unlucky to get the axe after an impressive pre-season, while Robin Nahas had an impact after taking off the red vest. Troy Chaplin struggled to pick up the pace of the game at times but will be better for the run.

ON THE CUSP: Plenty. Dylan Grimes is the most likely to get a call-up after getting through three quarters for Coburg at the weekend and picking up 11 disposals. If for some reason the Tigers wanted to make wholesale changes, a lot of players put their hands up in the VFL practice match including Nick Vlastuin (22 disposals), Matt Dea (31 disposals), Chris Knights (28 touches) and former Kangaroo Aaron Edwards (five goals and eight marks).

AL PATON'S FORECAST: Could go in unchanged for the clash against St Kilda on Friday night, when the Tigers hope to start a season 2-0 for the first time since 1997. But fringe players will know they have to perform to keep their spots – a situation Richmond hasn't enjoyed for a while.

ST KILDA

INJURIES
Sam Fisher (foot) test
Sean Dempster (hamstring) test
Jackson Ferguson (knee) 4 weeks
Daniel Markworth (knee) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Trent Dennis-Lane didn't touch the footy after coming on late as the sub. The man he replaced, Tom Hickey, was underwhelming in his St Kilda debut (four disposals) but is needed for structure. Sam Gilbert, Jack Newnes and Ahmed Saad are others who will want to improve their output this weekend.

ON THE CUSP: Adam Schneider, come on down. Schneider has now played three VFL practice matches after a carefully managed pre-season and is ready to step straight in. Leigh Montagna returns from suspension and Sam Fisher and potentially Sean Dempster could make for a handy quartet of inclusions, although the latter two are not guaranteed a start yet. Justin Koschitzke kicked a goal for Sandy as the Zebras were thrashed by 12 goals by Essendon's VFL side.

AL PATON'S PREDICTION: Dennis-Lane was a late inclusion for Round 1 and could go straight out again to make way for Schneider. The Saints will be desperate to get Fisher and Dempster back to help counter Richmond's tall forwards Jack Riewoldt, Ty Vickery and Luke McGuane.

Sam Fisher will need to train well to play the away game against the Suns on Saturday night. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

SYDNEY

INJURIES
Alex Johnson (knee) season
Gary Rohan (leg) Indefinite
Sam Naismith (thumb) 3-4 weeks
Tommy Walsh (hamstring) test

ON THE BLOCK: The Swans got the job done against GWS with minimum fuss. Lewis Jetta was unusually quiet but the only players who would be nervous this week are debutant Dean Rampe, who was subbed off, and his replacement Tony Armstrong. The pair had 13 disposals between them.

ON THE CUSP: Sydney had a bye in the NEAFL so there wasn't much of a chance for those outside the side to push their claims. The emergencies for Round 1 were Andrejs Everitt, Jed Lamb and Jesse White.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: Gold Coast coming off a win won't be a pushover but don't expect the Swans to be troubled as they gradually work their way to top gear. Will John Longmire bother tagging Gary Ablett?

WEST COAST

INJURIES
Daniel Kerr (knee) 2 weeks
Mark LeCras (arm) 4 weeks
Eric MacKenzie (hamstring) 2 weeks
Nic Naitanui (groin) 2 weeks
Mark Nicoski (hamstring) 6 weeks
Matthew Rosa (thigh) 5 weeks
Sharrod Wellingham (ankle) 3 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: A couple of certain outs with Mark LeCras (arm) and Erc MacKenzie (hamstring) facing extended stints on the sidelines. Ashley Smith struggled to make an impact.

ON THE CUSP: Veteran Andrew Embley collected 20 disposals in the WAFL last weekend and should be better for the run after starting Round 1 as the substitute. Defender Sam Butler looks ready for a recall after helping himself to 29 possessions for Perth. Wingman Bradd Dalziell also impressed in the state league. Daniel Kerr is set to make his comeback this weekend for East Fremantle.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Huge game for the Eagles coming up against a Hawthorn outfit fresh off yesterday's painful loss to Geelong. Josh Kennedy needs to fire inside the arc while the likes of Matthew Priddis, Luke Shuey and Andrew Gaff must be at the top of their games to counter the Hawks' A-grade midfield. Dean Cox will have the Hawks' measure at the stoppages but wary of the Eagles up forward. Jack Darling must impact the scoreboard for the Eagles to be any chance.

WESTERN BULLDOGS

INJURIES
Easton Wood (hamstring) test
Tom Williams (foot) 1 week
Matthew Boyd (calf) 2 weeks
Koby Stevens (hamstring) assess

ON THE BLOCK: Koby Stevens was subbed off against the Lions with hamstring tightness but he pulled up fine and will play against Fremantle on Saturday. Stevens' replacement Clay Smith didn't find much of the ball but would be stiff to miss out this week.

ON THE CUSP: Defenders Lukas Markovic and Michael Talia were named in the best for Williamstown in its Easter Sunday loss to Geelong at Torquay, where Jack Redpath kicked two goals. Jake Stringer played and kicked a nice goal but might find it tough to break into a winning line-up. Easton Wood was listed as a "test" last week but didn't come up, and must be close to the mark a week later.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Dogs are on the march, and will give themselves a chance of upsetting the Dockers at Etihad Stadium. Brendan McCartney's philosophy of stacking his midfield with inside ball-winners paid off last week, with the Dogs smashing Brisbane at the coalface. If Ayce Cordy can snaffle some more big grabs in the goalsquare, this team will cause a few headaches during the season.

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I'm sorry, Clarko: Kennett

Former Hawthorn president Jeff Kennett has called for coach Alastair Clarkson to be sacked at the season's end following 10th straight loss to Geelong

Keep walking, Clarko. Former Hawk president Jeff Kennett says it is time for a change at Hawthorn. Source: Herald Sun

A CONTRITE Jeff Kennett has apologised to Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson.

In a letter received by the Herald Sun, Kennett admitted this afternoon that his frustration prompted him to "wrongly single out Alastair for the seven point loss."

The former Hawthorn president called for Clarkson's sacking at the end of the season after Geelong scored its 10th consecutive victory over the Hawks at the MCG yesterday.

He said he sincerely apologised to Clarkson and his family "for the grief I have caused them."

Kennett's letter said:

I apologise to Alastair Clarkson.

I was out of line yesterday in holding him solely responsible for our club not saluting in the last three years and for our performance yesterday.

It is true that with out list of players and the support the club has given the football department that I felt we have underachieved over that three year period.

Of course that is a subjective view, and on each occasion we were beaten by a better team on the day.

And yes, someone must accept responsibility for those defeats.

But maybe in my support for my club I have come to expect too much!

And on reflection I was wrong to single out Alastair alone.

He, like all at the club, have done their best and Alastair has personal values which I have always gratefully respected.

We are all responsible for the good times and less successful.

Monday's game was a classic in that Hawthorn performed well in the first half and Geelong less so. But after halftime Geelong came out on a mission and turned the game on its head.

Our five goal advantage, which became three goals just before half time, quickly disappeared. We seem to have lost our mojo as Geelong found theirs.

The performance of (Paul) Chapman always has me in awe.

He is consistent in his toughness and drives the ball everytime he gets his hands on it. (Joel) Selwood is a wonderful leader who sets a very high standard of both leadership and effort.

Not to say Hawthorn was without contributors through (Sam) Mitchell, (Brad)  Sewell and ever competitive (Josh) Gibson. But, sadly not as competitive enough across the group as our opponents.

I guess when you have witnessed the club grow since 2005 to the level of membership and good health it enjoys today, you just expect it to keep performing at the highest level.

Hopefully that will continue to be the case and the season has just started, so to make judgments based on one game is inappropriate.

That said, the tribal nature of the game drives our emotions and yesterday, in my frustration, I wrongly singled out Alastair and for what was a team result for which we all must accept irresponsibility and be challenged to do better, week on week.

I sincerely apologise to Alastair Clarkson and his family for the grief I have caused them.

EARLIER today, Hawks captain Luke Hodge urged Kennett to think before he opens his mouth.

"Jeff done great things for our football club when he was president of the footy club," Hodge said on Tuesday morning.

"Now he is a frustrated person who is very opinionated. Some of the things (he says), I think he should think before he speaks ... a lot of smart people in football disagree with what he had to say.

"You have to take the good with the bad and I don't think you are going to change Jeff."

Speaking on Nova 100 on Tuesday morning, Hodge said Kennett was someone who "loves to get his opinion across because of who he is", but believed the club's most outspoken supporter needed to tone down criticism.

After watching his side lose to Geelong for the 10th consecutive time at the MCG on Sunday - to continue the 'Kennett Curse' -  the man himself said it was time for a change.

Asked if he thought Clarkson should be moved on at end of the season, Kennett said: "Yes."

"I think we need to introduce a freshness at the club that doesn't exist at the moment because so many of the personnel have been there for a number of years," Kennett told 3AW last night.

"They have been listening to the same voice for too long."

HAVE YOUR SAY - IS IT TIME FOR CLARKO TO GO?

Clarkson, who has a 57 per cent winning percentage in his eight years at the helm, has another year remaining on his contract.

But Kennett said last night the club had "underachieved" since winning the 2008 premiership.

"I always believe six to eight years is long enough any coach should stay at any club," he said

"He has brought great service to the club, but he has been in charge of one of the best groups of young men going around in footy now for a number of years now, certainly since 2008.

"There was an excuse in 2009 for our performance because of injury.

"But in 2010, 2011, 2012 we underperformed...someone has to accept responsibility for that."

Kennett said the club should look at appointing an untried assistant coach rather than try to lure a big name.

"I'd be looking for a second-tier coach who has proved himself and hungry for success and trying to prove himself," he said.

"I don't believe you look around for another senior coach - you elevate an assistant coach who has something to prove.

"Alastair has now been there for a long time, the players understand him very well...you have to freshen up the group.

"And we have a very good list still."

Kennett said near enough was not good enough at Hawthorn.

"What are we doing right? We're not winning flags," he said.
 

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My family were 'bitter' with Pies

Mick Malthouse has no interest in making peace with Eddie McGuire.

Mick Malthouse and Eddie McGuire after the 2011 Grand Final loss to Geelong. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: Herald Sun

CARLTON coach Mick Malthouse has revealed his family were 'bitter' and 'disappointed with humanity' following his departure from Collingwood as the build up to Sunday's blockbuster at the MCG intensifies.

As he prepares to face his former club for the first time, Malthouse has made public his family's distaste of the coaching handover to Nathan Buckley following the 2011 grand final defeat.

"They (my family) thought it (coaching) was finished at the end of Collingwood," he said in the third and final instalment of his Malthouse: No Limits documentary.

"They were very disappointed, bitter in many respects, with the way it finished (at Collingwood).

"And really done with football and disappointed with humanity, if you like.

"I like to build things on friendship, and they go along with that friendship – when it's broken, it's broken and badly broken."

His wife, Nanette, also revealed she could not wait for Sunday's blockbuster at the MCG to be over.

Carlton coach Mick Malthouse and wife Nanette. Picture: Julie Kiriacoudis Source: Herald Sun

"I'm just dreading it," she said in the documentary.

"I'll just be glad for it to be over because it's all everybody talks about.

"I'd like to go and hide away somewhere."

The three-time premiership coach admitted he was expecting to cop some comments from over the fence on Sunday.

"I'm sure the media will make more out of it than what it should be...(but) if I draw the attention and it helps my team, so be it," he said.

"I am not silly enough to suspect that when we walk onto the ground at the MCG in Round 2 that there is not going to be some banter between the supporters and them to me."

Malthouse said most Collingwood supporters he had come across still held him in high regard.

"I haven't met one Collingwood supporter that has been negative," Malthouse said.

"It surprised me because I don't think a lot of them know the full story.

"None the less, those that I do have contact with just acknowledge the fact I spent 12 good years at the Collingwood Football Club.

"Most wish me all the best, albeit with a follow up like, 'Why Carlton?'

The comments emerged the day after Malthouse made it clear he had no plans to reconcile with Magpies president Eddie McGuire.

"I have many things to do, but I don't think that is going to happen," Malthouse said on Fox Footy's On the Couch last night.

"And Eddie knows exactly the reasons why.

"I don't need to go there...there's a million things that happen on this planet and that are going to happen in football.

"I'm just focusing on this year."

McGuire has said he hoped to one day repair his relationship with Malthouse.

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Lindsay's got away with one: Bucks

North Melbourne goalsneak Lindsay Thomas faces a nervous wait with the match review panel after flooring Collingwood's Ben Reid with a big bump.

Lindsay Thomas's bump has sparked a war of words between the coaches. Picture: Salpigtidis George Source: Herald Sun

Brad Scott and Nathan Buckley have clashed over an incident involving North Melbourne's Lindsay Thomas and Collingwood's Ben Reid.

A DEFIANT Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley says Lindsay Thomas "got away with one" after the Kangaroos forward was cleared for his off-the-ball bump on Magpie Ben Reid.

"I think under the letter of the law there's obviously some grey area there," Buckley told Triple M.

"I think Lindsay's got away with one, that's it, it's great for North and we move on."

Buckley stood by his comments after the match which fuelled a war of words with rival coach Brad Scott.

"My interest is obviously the welfare of my players, Ben Reid was concussed and had to leave the game as a result of the incident.

"It was an incidental head clash but it was caused by the actions of the opposition player, the tribunal in their wisdom have deemed to clear it.

"I thought it (off-the-ball hit) was average."

Reid was substituted out of the match with concussion while Thomas played on.

"I don't mind that contact, I think that that contact is part of our game but it's been legislated out of it to the point players don't expect that sort of contact anymore.

"Lindsay Thomas changed direction, came back in and caused the contact, causing one of our players to leave the field."

A scathing war of words erupted between opposition coaches Brad Scott and Nathan Buckley last night as the postscript to the North Melbourne and Collingwood clash at Etihad Stadium which turned sour.

Scott told his Magpies counterpart to keep his opinions to himself after Buckley called Lindsay Thomas's off the ball hit on Ben Reid an "average'' act that would see the AFL "hold him to account for his actions''.

Magpies defender Reid did not return to the field having been left concussed and bleeding from the mouth after the third quarter incident.

VIDEO: See Lindsay Thomas's bump which has sparked so much controversy in the player above

As the ball was trickling out of play, Roos forward Thomas changed direction and clashed heads with an unsuspecting Reid who lay motionless on the ground for a couple of minutes.

A grossly undermanned Collingwood outclassed North Melbourne by 16 points, but the Thomas/Reid incident was the major talking point afterwards.

"I thought it was pretty average,'' Buckley said.

"I have full faith that the systems the AFL has in place will hold him to account for his actions.

"It was off the ball, unprovoked and we'll see how it happens.

"I don't want to pre-empt anything, but clearly if it's behind play and it it's high you're in a bit of strife.''

North Melbourne V Collingwood at Etihad Stadium, 31/3/13. Clash of heads between Ben Reid and Lindsay Thomas saw Reid off with a bloody mouth and players in a scuffle after Scott Pendlebury tested Lindsay Thomas's Picture: Salpigtidis George Source: Herald Sun

Scott was left seething by Buckley's remarks.

"Nathan Buckley should just worry about his own team,'' Scott said.

"Commentary like that doesn't help. I don't know what incident Nathan Buckley saw but a head clash is a head clash, it does happen in football, we play a contact sport.

"Bucks should just keep his opinions to himself when it comes to decisions and things that will be taken care of by the powers that be.

"It doesn't help when a senior coach comes in and starts influencing things and casting dispersions (sic) on our players.

"If Bucks wants to call me he can.''

Brad Scott tells Buckley to "keep opinions to himself".

Scott said it wasn't for him to say what he thought of the incident himself.

"But certainly from where I sat it didn't look malicious, it didn't look like he tried to hurt Ben Reid,'' he said.

"But as I said, it's not for me to say and it's certainly not for him to say.''

If you don't mind, umpire: the most controversial calls of Round 1

Reid's absence was further accentuated by the fact Ben Johnson had to be substituted at half time with a corked thigh.

Asked how he felt seeing Thomas continue while his side went down to two players on the bench Buckley simply said: "He stayed down and tried to fake that as well.

"It is what it is, it was not a great act and I'm sure he'll be feeling pretty sorry for it right now.

"Reidy will play next week."

Live HQ: North Melbourne v Collingwood

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LIVE Hawks v Cats

Hawthorn star Cyril Rioli marks in front of Geelong midfielder Taylor Hunt at the MCG. Picture: Getty Source: Herald Sun

4.25pm: Hawks 57 - Cats 37

POOR kicking continues to plague Hawthorn in its pursuit of vanquishing a nine-game hoodoo against Geelong.

The Hawks looked in control late in the second quarter when Lance Franklin and Isaac Smith slotted back-to-back goals.

Jarryd Roughead and Brent Guerra sprayed shots on goal in the shadows of half time as the Hawks go into the main break with nine behinds on the board.

But Geelong hit back with Tom Hawkins outmarking Ryan Schoenmakers to kick his first goal and put the Cats within striking distance.

Enter Travis Varcoe who used his speed to burst out of congestion and snap around his body cutting the margin to 20 points.

The Cats too have had their troubles in front of the big sticks registering seven behinds.

Live HQ: SuperCoach scores and stats

Hawk Paul Puopolo got plenty of the ball going into the main break with 76 SuperCoach points. Cyril Rioli (12 possessions, one goal) was next best.

Meanwhile, Geelong skipper Joel Selwood has been the pick of the Cats ahead of veteran Corey Enright and former Melbourne defender Jared Rivers.

Standby for a huge second half!

4.15pm: Hawks 43 - Cats 25

IT'S a battle of attrition at the MCG with Hawthorn and Geelong playing an exciting brand of end-to-end football.

The Hawks lead by 20 points but the Cats continue to push through Travis Varcoe and Joel Selwood providing plenty of spark.

But poor kicking has been the tale of the tape so far with Hawthorn and Geelong combining for 13 missed opportunities.

Hawthorn v Geelong,Goal, Brent Guerra, Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: Herald Sun

4.05pm: Hawks 34 - Cats 23

FRANKLIN passed his fitness test, alright. The superboot wasted little time in the second quarter launching a 55m drop punt for goal to open the scoring.

But Geelong hit back with goals to Paul Chapman and James Podsiadly cutting the margin to 11 points.

Tom Hawkins has been quiet early while young Hawk Brad Hill continues to dominate.

Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats and commentary

3.50pm: Hawks 26 - Cats 11

LANCE Franklin is off the ground with medicos checking out the superstar's hamstring.

A huge blow to the Hawks if the superboot is unable to return.

Brad Hill the star for the Hawks with 10 disposals and 49 SuperCoach points in a dominant first quarter.

The Cats only goal was a ripper from Billie Smedts late in the term tucked up along the boundary line.

Smedts snapped the ball around his body threading the goals but was forced to wait out a goal review to celebrate.

The review proved to be inconclusive with video umpire unable to determine if the ball had shaved the post on the way through. The goal umpire thought he "heard something".

Hawthorn v Geelong, Lance Franklin bumps Joel Selwood off play, Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: Herald Sun

3.43pm: Hawks 19 - Cats 5

GEELONG is on the back foot after back-to-back goals to Luke Breust and Brent Guerra to set up a 19-5 lead late in the first quarter.

Hawthorn has dominated play early with Guerra and Brad Hill the pick of the rampaging Hawks.

Hill, younger brother of Fremantle's Stephen, has been a revelation providing plenty of dash off half-back in the absence of Matthew Suckling (knee).

But the Cats only have themselves to blame spraying six shots on goal in the opening term.

Joel Selwood and Andrew Mackie the best for the Cats early.

Hawthorn v Geelong, Lance Franklin bumps Joel Selwood off play, Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: Herald Sun

3.28pm: Hawks 6 - Cats 2

HAWTHORN defender Josh Gibson has first crack on dangerous Geelong forward Tom Hawkins at the MCG today.

Hawkins booted a goal after the siren to deliver the Cats their ninth-straight victory over Hawthorn last time these two sides met.

Meanwhile, Ryan Schoenmakers is lined up against Cat James Podsiadly.

The Hawks have made the early running with Cyril Rioli, Jordan Lewis and Brad Hill getting plenty of the football.

Lewis kicked the first goal of the match taking a strong mark inside-50.

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PRE-GAME

BRIAN Lake is a late withdrawal from the Hawthorn team to face Geelong at the MCG today in the final match of Round 1.

Lake was named in the Hawks' defence despite not playing since he hurt his calf in the first round of the NAB Cup.

The team sheets for today's match have just been submitted and the former Bulldog is out, replaced by ruckman Max Bailey.

The late inclusion means the Hawks have three potential rucks in their line-up - Bailey, David Hale and Jarryd Roughead - while the Cats are playing first-gamer Mark Blicavs as first ruck. Trent West is on the bench.

The Geelong team is unchanged.

The subs are Jed Anderson (Hawthorn) and George Horlin-Smith (Geelong).

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