World Cup miracle for Afghtanistan

Afghan fans celebrate their team's victory after watching it on a big screen in Kabul. Source: AFP

WAR-TORN Afghanistan erupted in wild celebrations as its cricket team beat Kenya to qualify for the 2015 World Cup, just 12 years after the game took hold in the wake of the Taliban's fall.

About 3,000 fans packed onto the field at Kabul's only cricket stadium to watch the match on a big screen, with noisy chants and dancing marking each boundary as Afghan batsmen carried the side to an easy victory in Sharjah.

Celebratory gunfire tore through the air in the eastern city of Jalalabad as the realisation dawned that their country will be heading to the tournament, to be hosted in Australia and New Zealand.

"Tears come out of my eyes because of my happiness,'' Zakir Mohammadi, 23, told AFP, the national flag draped across his shoulders.

"I am speechless and can't express myself. This is a great feat for our cricket team and for all Afghans."

After dismissing Kenya for just 93 in the 44th over at the Sharjah Cricket Ground, Afghanistan reached their target in the 21st over when captain Mohammad Nabi hit a boundary through midwicket.

Nabi, who finished on 46 not out, and Hashmatullah Shaidi put on 62 for the fourth wicket to bring their side home with 175 balls to spare.

Nabi smashed two huge sixes and three fours to assure his team of second place in the World Cricket League behind runaway winners Ireland, who have also qualified for the World Cup.

Afghanistan will play in Pool A at the World Cup in 2015 along with Australia, New Zealand, Bangladesh, England, Sri Lanka and another qualifier.

Afghanistan's cricket side has progressed rapidly since the country emerged from the rule of the Taliban in 2001, when they also became an affiliate member of the International Cricket Council and an associate member earlier this year.

16.41 | 0 komentar | Read More

Nadal returns to world No.1

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

RAFAEL Nadal will return to No.1 in the world rankings for the first time since July 2011, after his semi-final opponent Tomas Berdych retired injured on Saturday at the China Open.

Nadal only needed to make the final in Beijing to edge ahead of Novak Djokovic in the new rankings, which will be announced on Monday.

The Spaniard was a break up at 4-2 in the opening set when Czech Berdych retired soon after taking an injury timeout.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Nadal has enjoyed a remarkable season, returning from injury to dominate the hardcourt tournaments with a win-loss record of 27-0.

Djokovic, who has topped the rankings for 101 weeks, plays Richard Gasquet of France in the other semi-final later on Saturday.

Nadal, sidelined for the second half of last year with a knee injury, has finished the season as No.1 twice before, in 2008 and 2010, and is unbeaten since crashing out of Wimbledon in the first round in June.

The 27-year-old, tipped to eclipse Roger Federer's record of 17 grand slam titles, has won 10 ATP World Tour titles in 2013. 

In the women's semis, top-ranked Serena Williams will play Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland and Petra Kvitova of the Czech Republic takes on Serbia's Jelena Jankovic.

16.41 | 0 komentar | Read More

Vettel fastest, Webber relegated

Sebastian Vettel celebrates another pole position next to Lewis Hamilton (L) and Mark Webber (R). Source: AFP

RUNAWAY Formula One championship leader Sebastian Vettel grabbed pole position on Saturday for the Korean Grand Prix, ahead of Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton.

Vettel's Australian Red Bull teammate Mark Webber was third fastest in qualifying but a 10-place grid penalty from the previous race relegates him to 13th.

The German set a time of one minute, 37.202 seconds around the Yeongam circuit and did not even need to improve on his last flying lap, qualifying two-tenths of a second faster than Hamilton.

Lotus driver Romain Grosjean qualified fourth but will move up to third, ahead of the Mercedes of Nico Rosberg, Ferrari duo Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa, Sauber pair Nico Huelkenberg and Esteban Guttierez, and Kimi Raikkonen in a Lotus.

Vettel claimed his sixth pole of the season and his third in a row. It will be the fifth time in succession that Vettel and Hamilton will line up on the front of the grid.

The two McLarens of Sergio Perez and Jenson Button and the Force India pair Paul Di Resta and Adrian Sutil failed to make the top 10.

Toro Rosso's Daniel Ricciardo of Australia and Jean-Eric Vergne were also knocked out in Q2.

Williams drivers Valtteri Bottas and Pastor Maldonado, the Caterham pair of Charles Pic and Giedo van der Garde, and Marussia's Jules Bianchi Max Chilton went out after the first qualifying.

Vettel has a 60-point lead over Alonso in the drivers' standings, with Hamilton a further 36 points back.

16.41 | 0 komentar | Read More

Manly's greatest ever team revamped

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

MANLY'S greatest ever team will require a major revamp if the Sea Eagles knock over the Roosters in Sunday's grand final.

In 2006 I was part of a panel with the club's 'godfather' Ken Arthurson, author and historian Ian Heads and former chairman Kerry Sibraa that named the best Manly team in 60 years.

Since then, this remarkably successful club has made four grand finals and won two premierships.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

With respect to all those originally chosen, the performances of current champions Jamie Lyon, Brett Stewart, Anthony Watmough and Kieren Foran in recent years almost demands a review.

They are to Manly what Cameron Smith, Billy Slater and Cooper Cronk are to Melbourne.

If Manly win tomorrow, there are two definite and two possible changes to the all-time greatest side.

Centre and skipper Jamie Lyon will have to be included. It will be his third premiership at the club.

He is a wonderful old style football player, who gets by on natural skill, thrives under pressure and has an obsession to win every time he takes the field.

The problem is you can't drop Bob Fulton or Michael O'Connor. I'd move Fulton to five-eighth for Wally O'Connell, not that I saw him play.

As much as he was a super player, O'Connell played most of his career at the Roosters and only two seasons at Brookvale for 34 appearances without winning a premiership.

I would also suggest Anthony Watmough should become a must selection the team. I'd at least put him on the bench for Ben Kennedy.

Kennedy is a bit like O'Connell – a champion but had only two seasons at the club and didn't win a grand final.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Watmough has been among the top three back-rowers in the world for so long. He has to be there.

The most debatable position is at fullback.

Who would have thought anyone could ever question the great Graham Eadie's position in any all-time great side.

He was not just the best fullback of his era but in some years the best player in the game.

Wombat played 237 club games, 20 Test matches, scored 71 tries, kicked goals and won four premierships.

He was an absolute superstar.

Then along comes Brett Stewart with an unbelievable 136 tries from 177 games. This will be his third premiership.

I'm not saying he should definitely go in for Eadie but it's certainly worth discussing as a possibility.

Finally, Keiran Foran. He is now New Zealand's Test captain, he's fearless, skilful, and incredibly tough with a competitive streak like no other player in the game.

Surely he deserves to be at least considered for a position on the bench.

1 Graham Eadie ------ Brett Stewart
2 Ken Irvine
3 Bob Fulton (c ) ------ Jamie Lyon
4 Michael O'Connor
5 Ray Branighan
6 Wally O'Connell ----- Bob Fulton (c )
7 Geoff Toovey
13 Mal Reilly
12 Terry Randall
11 Steven Menzies
10 Roy Bull
9 Max Krilich
8 John O'Neill
Reserves:
14 Des Hasler ------ Kieren Foran
15 Cliff Lyons
16 Ben Kennedy ------ Anthony Watmough
17 Paul Vautin  

16.42 | 0 komentar | Read More

Swans close on Buddy, Sylvia to Freo

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

SYDNEY'S offer for Lance Franklin is being examined by the AFL after paperwork was lodged during the opening day of free agency.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

"The AFL is currently still examining this offer," league spokesman Patrick Keane said on Twitter.

"The AFL will advise the respective clubs and the wider football public immediately when the examination of Franklin offer has been concluded."

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

AFL FREE AGENCY IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS - SCROLL DOWN TO RE-LIVE OUR LIVE COVERAGE

Franklin is one of four players to have offers tabled on the first day of free agency.

Adelaide has submitted an offer for Carlton small forward Eddie Betts worth an estimated $2 million over four years. As a restricted free agent, the Blues have three days to decide if they will match the offer or let Betts go.

Colin Sylvia and Matt White have both joined new clubs as unrestricted free agents.

Fremantle lodged an official offer for former Demon Sylvia while Port Adelaide has offered ex-Tiger White a three-year deal.

As unrestricted free agents they are free to join their new clubs immediately.

No bid has been lodged yet for Collingwood star Dale Thomas, but he is expected to wear navy blue next season, despite Carlton and Collingwood insisting they are yet to be told of a decision.

Thomas is strongly favouring joining the Blues on a lucrative four-year deal worth just under $700,000 a season.

But Carlton is out of the race for Taylor Adams, with the highly-rated GWS youngster telling them he will now either stay with the Giants or cross to Collingwood or Geelong.

The Blues are also courting Victorian-born Fremantle midfielder Viv Michie and Hawthorn's Shane Savage, who could be acquired in a straight swap with ruckman Shaun Hampson.

The Thomas announcement is unlikely to be made this week, paving the way for the 26-year-old to attend tonight's Collingwood best-and-fairest only days before being unveiled as a Carlton player.

The Pies have also presented Thomas with a four-year contract, but will not challenge the Blues' offer when it lands.

Carlton has put Thomas through a thorough examination of his troublesome ankle, organising as many as three medicals.

Blues recruiting manager Shane Rogers said this week the club was "confident with what the doctors have told us".

Carlton coach Mick Malthouse, a long-time admirer of Thomas, believes the 2010 premiership and All-Australian will help address his side's often-overwhelmed midfield.

Malthouse said after the Blues' recent semi-final loss to Sydney that Carlon's lack of run this year had been "extraordinary".

"Dale is a good age player, he's got many years left in him," Malthouse said last month.

"I know how he plays. I love the way he plays, but that doesn't mean he's anywhere near over the line (in signing for Carlton)."

Collingwood is expected to gain pick No.11 in the national draft as compensation for losing Thomas.

16.42 | 0 komentar | Read More

Foley primed for Wallabies debut

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

FIFTEEN months after Berrick Barnes' famous pre-Test baby dash scuttled his first shot at a Wallabies debut, Bernard Foley believes he'll be better equipped to finally pull on the gold jersey.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Foley will take his place on the Wallabies bench for a probable debut in Rosario on Sunday morning (AEST) after almost filling the same role in the second Test against Wales June last year.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

The NSW utility was the plan B option on standby when Barnes raced back to Sydney from Melbourne on Test eve to be at the birth of his first child Archie.

With Mike Harris set to move into the starting side, Foley studied up on all the plays and prepared as if he was going to play right up until a few hours before the match.

"They said they'd booked him a flight at 4pm," Foley recalled.

"If he is on it, he's on it and if he's not, you're on the bench.

"I was probably the only bloke in Australia praying the labour went on for a bit longer."

Foley was joking, of course, and his good mate ultimately arrived back in Melbourne two hours before kickoff.

"He went out there and played the game of his life, he was man of the match," Foley said.

"It was an awesome effort."

Though now a settled five-eighth, Foley was named in the slightly unfamiliar role of last man on the bench, a spot which traditionally covers outside backs.

"It's a very proud moment. Hopefully I can get on the field," Foley said.

"At that stage (last year) I don't think I had played any games at fly-half, so to have a whole season under my belt and play every (Super Rugby) game gives me a lot of confidence. It has also allowed me to develop as a player, I think."

Coach Ewen McKenzie said Foley - a former Australian sevens skipper - could cover most positions in the backline and had demanded selection with training park form.

"It doesn't matter who you talk to, he has impressed not only coaches but teammates with his footballing ability and just in the way he conducts himself," he said.

"He has energy and brings good talk and a good football brain. You look at this game that's what we're going to need."

McKenzie said Foley would be strategically used in the last quarter of the match to take advantage of his skill at slicing open tired defences.

"We need to create pressure on the opposition, and be able to take moments. If you have a quick look at his stats, you'll find he's the guy who made the most linebreaks for the Tahs and created the most headaches for the opposition," McKenzie said.

"That'll be very handy in the last period of the game."

16.41 | 0 komentar | Read More

Tubby athletes we love to cheer

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

GEORGE Rose is set to stomp onto the field as a Sea Eagle for the last time in Saturday's Grand Final.

So as a fitting tribute to the Manly behemoth, we've decided to do a rundown of the over-sized athletes from across the sporting world who are still considered to be at the top of their fields, starting with Rose himself.

George Rose – Rugby League

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Gorgeous George is a throwback to rugby league's golden era, where abs were a rumour and a well-rounded diet consisted of a pie AND a beer. The list of tubby league players from yesteryear is long as they were rotund, but Rose is among the few still flying the flag in defiance of the game's nutritionists. Fast and mobile for a man of his carriage, Rose will provide plenty of impact for the Sea Eagles in Sunday's Grand Final before packing his bags to take up a new contract with Melbourne in 2014.

Mark Cosgrove – Cricket

Cricket fans wouldn't have batted an eyelid at the sight of Cosgrove's midriff during the David Boon era, but not so these days. In an era where homogenous cricketers seem mass produced from the same slimline cookie-cutter, Cosgrove bucks the trend. Although not in the same weight division as Berumda's Dwayne Leverock, once dubbed the "Bermuda Pie Angle", Cosgrove dwarfs most of his contemporaries in the Ryobi Cup. He played three one-day internationals for Australia in 2006 before being de-listed by his native South Australia over an apparent lack of commitment to training. Shane Warne, pre-Liz, would have been proud.

John Daly – Golf

It couldn't be a "tubby athlete" list without golf's greatest showman. Daly has tried crash diets, bouts of sobriety and lap-band surgery over the course of his colourful career, but that protruding belly just keeps resurfacing. Daly's excesses at the dinner table have been far exceeded by those at the roulette table, however. "The Wild Thing" claims to have lost up to $60 million over the course of his career, including $1.5 million in a $5,000-per-spin poker machine in 2005.

Ricardo Blas Jr – Judo

At 218 kilograms, Blas holds the record as the heaviest competitor in the history of the modern Olympics – a full 20 kilograms clear of his closest rival. The judoka from Guam competed at the Beijing and London Olympics in the 100+ kilogram class (which he juuuuuust barely qualified for), losing in the first and second rounds respectively. In what is quite possibly the most understated nickname in sports' history, Blas is known as "The Little Mountain" in Guam. 

Piri Weepu – Rugby Union

Admittedly, Weepu can't hold a candle to the rugby world's armada of chubby front rowers, but the subject of the All Black halfback's girth still made front page news in New Zealand last year. After spending too much time in the top paddock during the 2012 pre-season, Weepu returned for duty a touch out of shape. Local media outlets reported as much, prompting Weepu's parents and teammates to launch a spirited defence and the player himself to engage in several heated Twitter exchanges with the public.

Pablo Sandoval – Baseball

Baseball may well be the last safe haven for fatties in professional sport. "America's past time" boasts a long list of rotund competitors, most notably George Herman "Babe" Ruth, perhaps the greatest hitter of them all. Venezuelan third baseman Sandoval headlines the modern day list of large-and-in-charge ballplayers. Nicknamed "Kung Fu Panda" by adoring fans in San Francisco, Sandoval has won two World Series and has twice been named an All-Star.

Jeroen Verhoeven – Football

Diego Maradona and "One Tonne" Ronaldo may have grabbed the headlines for their expanding waistlines, but only in the twilight of their playing careers. Jeroen Verhoeven, on the other hand, has packed quite the gut for entirety of his football career. Currently on the books of FC Utrecht, the 33-year-old goalkeeper was once subjected to chants of "Pizza!" by opposing fans every time the ball was in his possession.

Emanuel Yarborough – Sumo Wrestling

At 2.03 metres and 302 kilograms, Emanuel Yarborough is sumo wrestling's perfect weapon. The Guinness Book of Records recognises "Tiny" Yarborough as the world's heaviest athlete amid claims he has weighed in at up to 370 kilograms at various points of his sumo and MMA career. The American's success in the dohyo has translated to notoriety in the wider world, with Yarborough starred in a Bollywood film – presumably an IMAX production - and an advertising campaign for a mobile phone company.

16.42 | 0 komentar | Read More

Mike's Top 50: Swan misses top 5

Dane Swan fires up after kicking a goal. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Wayne Ludbey / HeraldSun

SCRATCH Dane Swan from the list of options for the No.1 spot - he can't get any higher than seven in Mike Sheahan's Top 50.

See 6-10 in the countdown below and come back tomorrow to see who is No.1 in the full Top 50 interactive experience, including video, our other experts' verdict and your chance to vote on every player.

SEE THE PLAYERS MIKE RANKED 11-20

SEE THE PLAYERS MIKE RANKED 21-30

SEE THE PLAYERS MIKE RANKED 31-40

SEE THE PLAYERS MIKE RANKED 41-50

6. KIEREN JACK
Position: Midfield
2013 pre-season rank: 22
2012 post-season rank: 15
Best post-season rank: 2012
SC average: 109

Mike says: He's a jet. Works both ways with equal enthusiasm, wins his own footy, kicks goals (24) and tackles with the energy and intensity you would expect of a kid who grew up in a rugby league environment.

Sydney's Kieren Jack sprints through the middle of the SCG. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: HeraldSun

7. DANE SWAN
Position: Midfield
2013 pre-season rank: 13
2012 post-season rank: 16
Best post-season rank: 2 (2010)
SC average: 117

Mike says: Might have won a second Brownlow this year, but died on his run according to the the umpires. His possessions exceeded 700, he's still a brilliant clearance player and he kicks goals (21).

Dane Swan bursts out of the middle. Picture: Michael Klein Source: HeraldSun

8. RYAN GRIFFEN
Position: Midfield
2013 pre-season rank: 32
2012 post-season rank: 46
Best post-season rank: 39 (2010)
SC average: 116

Mike says: A long-time good player reached elite level this year. Averaged almost 30 possessions a week, coped with close attention week after week, and was a constant source of drive.

Ryan Griffen's silky skills were on show for the Bulldogs in 2013. Picture: Salpigtidis George Source: HeraldSun

9. SAM MITCHELL
Position: Midfield
2013 pre-season rank: 11
2012 post-season rank: 3
Best post-season rank: 2012
SC average: 104

Mike says:  He's a Hawthorn great and a great of the game. Amassed almost 700 possessions in 24 games and there's none better with ball in hand.

Sam Mitchell in the thick of the action, as usual. Picture: Mark Dadswell Source: HeraldSun

10. HARRY TAYLOR
Position: Defender
2013 pre-season rank: 33
2012 post-season rank: 49
Best post-season rank: 35 (2010)
SC average: 94

Mike says: Equally at home back or forward. Superb mark, smart and efficient with the ball in hand. His forays forward netted 15 goals. No wonder Freo went so hard at him .

Defender Harry Taylor provided a dangerous target in front of goal when he was moved forward this season. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: HeraldSun

16.42 | 0 komentar | Read More

'JOC can play 150 Tests for Wallabies'

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

EWEN McKenzie believes James O'Connor can still play a record 150 Tests for the Wallabies but only if he doesn't run away from his off-field problems.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Speaking in Argentina where Australia are preparing to play the Pumas on Sunday (AEST), McKenzie said he had spoken with O'Connor yesterday about his choice between taking a massive pay-cut and playing for the Force, or heading offshore for a European or Japanese club.

After being told he would lose a $500,000 ARU contract in 2014 O'Connor faces a test of character, believes McKenzie.

"I've encouraged him (to stay). He can run and go and do something else, or he can stay and fight his way back into the Australian rugby scene," McKenzie said.

"I'm not closing the door on him in that sense but he has to obviously fulfil the criteria in terms of playing Super Rugby but also he has to modify behaviour.

"He'll understand that it's a fairly big moment for him ...but it's also a great opportunity for him if he wants to embrace the behavioural side which is the bit I'm interested in.

"He's a bloody good footballer. I've said to him he's quite capable of playing 150 Tests if he wants to but he isn't going to if he doesn't get his off-field stuff sorted."

Aged 23, O'Connor has already played in 44 Tests since debuting at age 18 in 2008. He could conceivably cruise past George Gregan's world record of 139 Test caps - or whoever holds it in a decade - if he stays in Australia and on the straight and narrow.

McKenzie pointed out O'Connor had made noticeable improvement in his behaviour and efforts to contribute to Wallabies team culture since he took over, but the Perth airport incident left him with no choice but to initially suspend the winger.

"I'm interested in him as a person. He's obviously a very good footballer but I think the football bit is the easy bit. The other bits over time would suggest that's a harder fix but fixable nonetheless," McKenzie said.

"He's playing snakes and ladders and he's tumbled down a ladder and now he's got to climb again."

Asked if he felt the penny had finally dropped with O'Connor this week, McKenzie said: "I think he understands."

"He's been around for five years so there has obviously been a bunch of incidents but he has continued to be involved (in the team)," he said.

"Well, now he's not involved. I think that's a fairly substantial message. It doesn't matter how you end your time  when you're not playing  any player who's injured for a period of time or not picked, they'll al tell you the same thing, that they miss it. They miss it big time. They miss their mates, they miss the camaraderie, they miss the whole environment."

16.42 | 0 komentar | Read More

'Get on Friend for Clive Churchill'

Jake Friend celebrates a try against the Knights. Source: Mark Evans / DailyTelegraph

BRAITH Anasta has watched his old Sydney Roosters teammates closely in 2013 and he believes Jake Friend is "a massive smoky" for the Clive Churchill Medal on Sunday.

Speaking to foxsports.com.au for Wednesday afternoon's Grand Final edition of the NRL 360 blog, Anasta predictably tipped the Roosters to turn around the disappointing result in the 2010 Grand Final and expected Friend to play a big role.

While Mitchell Pearce gets Anasta's nod as the more likely to finish with the medal, he believes Friend is an underrated chance who will be right up there in the voting on Sunday.

"If form's anything to go by I think it will be Jake Friend or Mitchell Pearce," Anasta told foxsports.com.au.

"Against the Knights, Friend got the Roosters going with momentum through the middle and Pearce came home really strong - he ran the ball the best I've seen all year.

"I'd probably lean towards Pearce but I rate Friend a really big smoky."

Re-live the live blog below for more of Anasta's take on Sunday's Grand Final as well as discussion with NRL 360 co-host Paul Kent, Cronulla halfback Jeff Robson and former referees boss Bill Harrigan. 

16.42 | 0 komentar | Read More

Hindmarsh does the red carpet

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

HE'S hardly a style icon but there was plenty of fun to be had when Nathan Hindmarsh took to the red carpet at Tuesday night's Dally M awards.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Fighting illness, the Parramatta legend, like he did in his playing days, left his sick bed to ensure he'd be part of the action for Fox Sports.

While he managed to interview many of the star, including the big names playing in this weekend's grand final, eventual winner Cooper Cronk gave Hindy the swerve.

Johnathan Thurston let a few secrets out of the bag about his playing days alongside Hindmarsh in the Kangaroos while Jarryd Hayne let his former teammate know just how much they were missing Hindmarsh at Parramatta Stadium.

To catch all the fun watch the videos on this page.

16.42 | 0 komentar | Read More

Mike's Top 50: Giant tick for Cameron

Jeremy Cameron finished third in the Coleman Medal in just his second season in the AFL. Source: Wayne Ludbey / HeraldSun

JEREMY Cameron leaps into the top 30 alongside Cloke, Hodge and Stevie J in the latest installment of Mike Sheahan's Top 50.

See the next 10 players in the countdown at 7pm tonight and watch video of Mike defending his exclusive choices so far.

SEE THE PLAYERS MIKE RANKED 41-50

SEE THE PLAYERS MIKE RANKED 31-40

The rest of the Top 50 will be unveiled over the next two days - come back on Friday to see the full list including the coveted No.1 spot, and a full interactive experience including your vote on every player.

21. STEVE JOHNSON
Position: Forward-midfield
2013 preseason rank: 23
2012 post-season rank: 36
Best post-season rank: 10 (2007)

Mike says: What a star. Thrived in the midfield, thrilled supporters (of all teams) and scored a lot of love from umpires. Even when he mucks up, it's entertaining.

Steve Johnson snaps at goal in the preliminary final. Picture: Michael Klein Source: HeraldSun

22. TRAVIS CLOKE
Position: Forward
2013 preseason rank: 12
2012 post-season rank: 45
Best post-season rank: 3 (2011)
SC average: 95

Mike says: Big year from the big man. Booted 68.51 to narrowly miss Coleman and, as always, was outstanding overhead. Averaged nine marks a game.

Travis Cloke kicks a big goal. Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: HeraldSun

23. RORY SLOANE
Position: Midfield
2013 preseason rank: 26
First season-end selection
SC average: 107

Mike says: He's a beauty. He looks like an altar boy and plays like a demon. Talented, brave and resilient.

Rory Sloane pounces on a loose ball. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: HeraldSun

24. MICHAEL JOHNSON
Position: Defender
First season-end selection
SC average: 87

Mike says: Freo's solitary rep in the team of the year. Finally acknowledged for his smooth skills and consistency. An average 20 disposals at 81 per cent tells the tale.

Fremantle's Michael Johnson celebrates a goal. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: HeraldSun

25. NICK RIEWOLDT
Position: Forward
2013 preseason rank: 47
Best post-season rank: 1 (2004)

Mike says: Under-appreciated this year because of his team's lack of success. Averaged better than nine marks a game and kicked 50 goals ... and delivery was shoddy.

Nick Riewoldt marks in front of Richmond's Troy Chaplin. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: HeraldSun

26. JOSH KENNEDY
Position: Midfield
2013 preseason rank: 5
2012 post-season rank: 2
Best post-season rank: 2012

Mike says: Not quite as good this year, yet still a solid, reliable performer. Averaged 27 possessions and dominated at the clearances with his strength and quick hands.

Josh Kennedy fends off Magpie Jarryd Blair to win another contested possession. Picture: Michael Klein Source: HeraldSun

27. JEREMY CAMERON
Position: Forward
First season-end selection
SC average: 73

Mike says: Was in contention for the Coleman until the last round. Kicked 28 per cent of his team's goals. Great mark, reliable kick, outstanding prospect.

Jeremy Cameron almost hangs on to a screamer. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: HeraldSun

28. CHRIS MAYNE
Position: Forward
First season-end selection
SC average: 92

Mike says: Super season. Hampered by a back injury in last two finals, but still managed 37 goals for the year (37.12) and 34 score assists. Brilliant tackler.

Chris Mayne celebrates a big goal in the Grand Final. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: HeraldSun

29. LUKE HODGE
Position: Midfield
Best post-season rank: 4 (2008)
SC average: 97

Mike says: Probably deserves to be higher given his leadership and all-round aura. Good numbers and at his best in big games. A true champion.

Hawthorn captain Luke Hodge celebrates with the 2013 premiership cup. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: HeraldSun

30. ANDREW MACKIE
Position: Defender
Best post-season rank: 30 (2009)
SC average: 87

Mike says: Enjoyed the best year of his excellent career. Remains a shrewd, cool, reliable defender who wins plenty of the ball and uses it wisely.

Andrew Mackie celebrates after kicking a goal. Picture: Michael Klein Source: HeraldSun

 

16.41 | 0 komentar | Read More

Mike's Top 50: Where's Buddy?

Robert Murphy returns to Mike's Top 50 after a superb season for the Western Bulldogs. Source: HeraldSun

A VETERAN Dog and a reborn Cat make the cut, but there's no sign of Lance Franklin as Mike reveals the players ranked 41-50.

See the next 10 players in the countdown at mignight and watch video of Mike defending his exclusive choices so far.

The rest of the Top 50 will be unveiled over the next two days - come back on Friday to see the full list including the coveted No.1 spot, and a full interactive experience including your vote on every player.

41. MATHEW STOKES
Position: Forward
First season-end selection
SuperCoach average: 97

Mike says: Blitzed in the first half of the season, racked up 630 possessions for the year and led Geelong for score-assists. Second to Joel Selwood for contested ball.

Mathew Stokes swoops on a loose ball. Picture: Colleen Petch Source: HeraldSun

42. BRENDON GODDARD
Position: Midfield
2013 pre-season rank: 45
Best post-season ranking: 3 (2010)
SC average: 106

Mike says: Pays a heavy price for being less than so many of us have expected. Pretty handy first season in red and black. Nearly 600 possessions plus 18 goals.

A pumped up Brendon Goddard. Picture: Michael Klein Source: HeraldSun

43. DANIEL WELLS
Position: Midfield
2013 pre-season rank: 48
2012 post-season rank: 41
Best post-season rank: 34 (2011)
SC average: 96

Mike says: Probably his best year. Starting to realise just how good he can be. Carried the ball with dash and kicked 25 goals, more than handy from a midfielder.

Daniel Wells on the move. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: HeraldSun

44. GRANT BIRCHALL
Position: Defender
2012 post-season rank: 30
Best post-season rank: 2012
SC average: 92

Mike says: One of the Hawks' genuine stars. Averaged 24 possessions with a disposal efficiency in the 80s. Super link player.

Grant Birchall flattens Fremantle's Danyle Pearce during the Grand Final. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: HeraldSun

45. ROBERT MURPHY
Position: Defender
Best post-season rank: 37 (2005)
SC average: 99

Mike says: One of my favorites of the modern game. Love his dash, daring and composure, and his exquisite disposal skills. Comfortable at either end of the ground.

Robert Murphy gets the Bulldogs out of trouble. Picture: Michael Klein Source: HeraldSun

46. RICHARD DOUGLAS
Position: Midfield
Best post-season rank: 37 (2010)
SC average: 102

Mike says: Adelaide's best for much of the season. Won a heap of footy, booted 20 goals, big on score-assists and tackled hard and often.

Richard Douglas gives Sydney's Craig Bird the slip. Picture: Reed Sarah Source: The Advertiser

47. ANDREW WALKER
Position: Forward/Midfield
First season-end selection
SC average: 106

Mike says: One of the most dashing, damaging defenders of the year. Averaged 23 disposals and was adventurous with the ball.

Andrew Walker in full flight off half-back. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: HeraldSun

48. JOSH GIBSON
Position: Defender
2012 post-season rank: 32
Best post-season rank: 2012
SC average: 79

Mike says: One of the major planks in the Hawthorn defence. Defensive in the air, smart at ground level, creative with ball in hand. Led the table for rebound-50s.

Josh Gibson enjoys Hawthorn's premiership with fans at the MCG. Picture: Michael Klein Source: HeraldSun

49. BRAD EBERT
Position: Midfield
First season-end selection
SC average: 97

Mike says: One of the keys to Port Adelaide's improvement. Had heaps of the ball with a high efficiency rating (68.5 per cent). Played every game and led the tackle count at his club .

Brad Ebert celebrates a goal with Angus Monfries. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

50. TODD GOLDSTEIN
Position: Ruck
Best post-season rank: 23 (2011)
SC average: 114

Mike says: Not far behind Will Minson as the premier ruckman of the season. Not a vintage year for the gladiators, but he was consistent, resilient and effective.

Todd Goldstein jumps over Chris Dawes to win the tap. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

16.41 | 0 komentar | Read More

Buddy deal a year in the making

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

LANCE Franklin's move to Sydney began soon after the 2012 Grand Final.

Franklin's management contacted the Swans and said Franklin would like to play for them in 2014.

Watch a Buddy Bombshell special edition of AFL360 at 7.30pm tonight on Fox Footy

Talks were held during this season, before they were ramped up in the past eight weeks.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

The announcement today that Franklin had knocked back a huge deal from GWS to join the Swans stunned the football world, including the AFL and the Giants.

The Franklin-Swans deal was known by only a handful of people.

HAVE YOUR SAY IN THE CHAT WINDOW BELOW

Angry GWS officials believe Sydney's coup has all but killed off the 9.8 per cent "cost of living allowance" given to the two NSW teams.

The Twitter posting from the Giants official account stated the AFL club had withdrawn their offer "based on advice that he (Franklin) will accept an offer from the Swans".

GWS believes Sydney's offer for Franklin is a massive $1.4 million a season over five years, plus ambassadorial money yet to be determined.

But sources at the Hawks and rival clubs suggest the deal may be almost double that at $10 million over nine years.

It would be the biggest contract since Alastair Lynch signed a 10-year deal with the Brisbane Bears in 1994.

The Giants' offer was $1.2 million over six years, plus AFL extras.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Angry GWS officials believe Sydney's coup has all but killed off the 9.8 per cent "cost of living allowance" given to the two NSW teams.

Late today the Swans issued a statement confirming they will make an offer to Franklin when the free agency period opens on Friday.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

"We are pleased that Lance has expressed his desire to join the Swans," the statement said.

Hawthorn also issued a statement to say it had been informed that Franklin "has decided to explore his options under free agency".

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

The Hawks gave a strong indication they will not try to match Sydney's offer, saying "Hawthorn Football Club will continue to apply its established list management strategy that puts the needs and interests of the club first."

GWS CEO Dave Matthews said the club had been advised today by Franklin's manager Liam Pickering that he intended to accept an offer from the Swans.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

"We put forward what we believed to be both a sensible and attractive offer to Franklin. Contrary to media reports, that offer was $1.2 million a year over six years," he said.

"It appears he has a significantly higher financial offer which we would not have been prepared to make based on our due diligence. We have every confidence in our list management strategy but we cannot compromise it for the sake of one individual.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

"We have been patient and shown a lot of respect through the process. This decision now allows us to pursue other options during the forthcoming trade period.

"With the right experienced players alongside the likes of Jeremy Cameron and Jonathan Patton we have every confidence we can achieve significant on field improvement in the years to come."The Herald Sun understands the Hawks superstar is poised to meet with coach Alastair Clarkson today, where it is expected he will tell him of his plans to move to Sydney.

Analysis: How can the Swans afford Buddy?

Footy's 10 biggest trade moves

It is believed Franklin has revealed plans to buy a house in the trendy Sydney suburb of Bondi.

Franklin has almost certainly played his last game for Hawthorn and has been considering multi-million dollar offers from both Sydney and GWS.

News Limited today revealed that the Sydney Swans had launched a last-minute offer to snare Franklin, with the offer believed to be in the vicinity of $7 million across five seasons.

The appointment today of Swans veteran Michael O'Loughlin to the post of head of Sydney's football academy - the position formerly held by Paul Roos - is believed to be a key to Franklin's decision.

When asked about his future this week by friends, Franklin has told them that he wants to make a lifestyle decision.

His friendship with Sydney model Jesinta Campbell could also influence his decision which is expected within the next 24 hours.

The pair are known to have been friends for some time but the relationship has developed in recent times.

16.41 | 0 komentar | Read More

Ahmed blows Tigers away in Ryobi

Fawad Ahmed skittled Tasmania despite the conditions.   Source: Michael Klein / News Limited

HEAVY winds and heavy hitting threatened to blow him away, but Victorian spinner Fawad Ahmed continued his recent cricketing fairytale in Victoria's five wicket one-day win over Tasmania on Tuesday.

Pakistan-born Ahmed, who recently made his Australian T20 and one-day debuts in England, went for 20 in a loose first over at Bankstown Oval on Tuesday.

However, Ahmed (4-38 off 8.2 overs)smashed through the middle and lower order.and recorded career -best one-day figures.

Tasmania were well placed at 2-143 in the 34th over, with Ed Cowan (60 off 88 balls) prominent, but the Tigers lost 8-54 to be dismissed for 197 in the 49th over.

In reply, Victoria achieved their target with 5.1 overs to spare after a slight mid-innings wobble.

Left handers Rob Quiney (49 off 59) and captain Matthew Wade (31 off 28) belted 57 off 10.4 overs following the early loss of Aaron Finch (2 off 13).

Wade and David Hussey (9 off 14) were both run out,as the Bushrangers lost 3-19 and slumped to 4-101,

However, Peter Handscomb (43 not out off 72) and Michael Hill (34 off 57) steadied the innings with a partnership of 60.

Handscomb and John Hastings (23 not out off 26) completed the task.

Ahmed concentrated on bowling at the stumps after a first over he he admitted he took too easily, as Cowan belted him for a six and two fours,.

''The guys really supported me and boosted my morale, especially the captain and that was the turning point for me,'' Ahmed said.

Pakistani refugee Ahmed continued his super run in 2013 after an initially frustrating period as he waited to be granted Australian citizenship following his arrival in the country in 2010.

''Cricket is a funny game, sometimes it favours you, sometimes it makes you cry, but its a good time for me,'' Ahmed said.

''It took a long time to come to this stage. I've been through a really tough time, but to be honest the last year has been amazing.''

Tasmania suffered another dramatic collapse after losing 8-46 in Sunday's tournament-opening 81-run loss to NSW.

''I need to be held accountable for that and probably needed to bat a little bit longer through the innings,'' Cowan said.

Cowan added 76 in just under 14 overs with captain George Bailey (29 off 41).

Openers Mark Cosgrove (35 off 51) and Alex Doolan (17 off 30) gave the Tigers a good start with a 42 run partnership off 9.4 overs.

At one stage the wind was so strong the umpires removed the bails from both sets of stumps, before replacing them with heavier ones.

16.41 | 0 komentar | Read More

Arthur firms for Cows, Henry to Titans

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

MANLY assistant coach Brad Arthur has firmed for the Cowboys post as Wayne Bennett lashed out at speculation he was set to replace Neil Henry in Townsville.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

The development comes as departed Cowboys coach Neil Henry was this announced as the Titans assistant coach for next season, as revealed by News Corporation last month.

Arthur is expected to be formally unveiled as North Queensland's coach in the coming days, ousting rival candidates Paul Green, Kevin Walters, Rick Stone and Kristian Woolf for the post.

Stone, who will coach Fiji at the World Cup, was informed last week he is out of the race, while it is understood Roosters under-20s coach Green has also been notified by Cowboys hierarchy.

Should Arthur secure the Cowboys job, it would be a career coup for the former Storm assistant, who succeeded Steve Kearney as Parramatta's caretaker coach for six weeks in 2012.

The one certainty is Bennett will not be at North Queensland next season, with the master coach on Monday reiterating his desire to coach the Knights in 2014.

"It started with the media. You just keeping going on about it. You absolutely fascinate me," he said.

"I've said what I've said today, and I don't really want to keep going on about it until you raise its head again somewhere in six months' time when some other club hasn't got a coach.

"It's fascinated me the rubbish that went on about it. Here I am justifying why I'm staying here. I'm here. Do you understand that? ... Don't you ever read your own articles or read what's said?

"I was never leaving the Knights. I never applied for a job up there (Cowboys), I never went for an interview for a job up there."

Meanwhile, Henry will officially join the Titans next season, working alongside head coach John Cartwright and his assistants Steve Murphy and Trevor Gillmeister.

Cartwright had urged Titans hierarchy to beef-up his coaching unit and that request has been fulfilled with the addition of Henry, who will bring tactical nous to the Gold Coast.

"Neil has plenty of experience coaching in the NRL so to have someone of his calibre joining the club will add enormously to our coaching group," said Cartwright.

"I'm sure the players are going to be the ones that benefit, as an extra member of the coaching staff will ensure that they receive more one-on-one time with the coaches.

"We have a great coaching group here already and I'm sure Neil's skill set will bring a new element to the table."
Former Queensland Origin assistant Henry said he is keen to help steer the Titans to the finals in 2014.

"I'm grateful for the opportunity to work with Titans and I'm really looking forward to it," said Henry.

"The Titans are a relatively new club with a strong and exciting playing roster moving forward so I'm looking forward to contributing in a coaching capacity.

"The club has made a commitment to strengthening their coaching staff and that gives me the opportunity to work a bit more hands on with the players than you do as a head coach so I'm excited about that."

16.41 | 0 komentar | Read More

Barnett to don Hawks jumper after lost bet

WEST Australian Premier Colin Barnett will don a Hawks jumper and hand out Victorian tourism brochures after losing a bet on the AFL grand final.

In the MCG stands on Saturday, Mr Barnett appeared stern-faced as the Fremantle Dockers lost to the Hawthorn Hawks.

Having lost a bet with Victorian Premier Denis Napthine, Mr Barnett will on Tuesday spruik Victoria in Perth's Hay Street Mall, clad in Hawthorn's brown and yellow colours.

Mr Barnett is a long-time West Coast Eagles supporter, but jumped on the Dockers' bandwagon in the lead-up to the grand final.

Victorians will no doubt view the embarrassment as just desserts for Mr Barnett, who had said a Hawks win was a "remote possibility", describing Melbourne as "soggy".

The premier is expected to walk through Hay Street Mall at about midday on Tuesday.

16.41 | 0 komentar | Read More

Sick Pearce gives Roosters fright

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

MITCHELL Pearce sent a collective chill down the spines of Roosters fans when struck down with flu-like symptoms.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

Pearce did not attend a scheduled media session and was ordered home by Roosters coach Trent Robinson.

The in-form halfback took to Twitter to reassure fans he would take the field in Sunday's decider against the Sea Eagles.

"Hey guys everything is sweet just a bit fluey will b jumping out of bed in the morning #lotsoffluid," Pearce tweeted.

The Roosters have a scheduled day off on Tuesday. Pearce is expected to rejoin the team on Wednesday.

Pearce has formed an effective halves partnership with James Maloney this season and will form a critical part of the Roosters' bid for a 13th title on Sunday.

``He's probably been their best player all year,'' Manly fullback Brett Stewart said on Monday.

Aidan Guerra, was quick to dismiss the suggestion Pearce was in any doubt of missing the grand final.

``Pearcey is all good. There's no problems there,'' Guerra said. ``It's just a precautionary thing. He'll be right.''

Pearce's flu-like symptoms represent the second time in as many weeks the Roosters' camp has been rocked by illness.

Superstar Sonny Bill Williams failed to train last Friday and was in doubt for the side's preliminary final against Newcastle on Saturday night.
 

16.41 | 0 komentar | Read More

Penthouse and Outhouse: GF edition

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

FOX FOOTY expert Julian de Stoop takes a look at the AFL Grand Final with the Hawks proving too good for Fremantle at the MCG.

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

IN THE PENTHOUSE

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

BRIAN LAKE
12 months ago Brian Lake was sitting in the MCG car park drinking beer before the Grand Final now the former Bulldog is a Hawthorn premiership hero.
Lake's strength has always been his ability to intercept mark and in windy conditions he was at this very best in this aspect of the game.
Lake pulled in 10 marks including vital grabs in the final term. The veteran defender also gathered 22 disposals on his way to a deserved Norm Smith Medal…the first key defender since Carlton great Bruce Doull in 1981 to win the medal.

JACK GUNSTON
The Hawks' big three up forward Lance Franklin, Jarryd Roughead and Cyril Rioli didn't set the world on fire this finals series, kicking just seven goals between them.
The trio ended up playing a back seat to former Crow Jack Gunston who was arguably the player of the finals series.
The second year Hawk finished with 11 goals in his three finals and missed out on the Norm Smith Medal by just one vote.

HAWKS' RECRUITING
In 2008 former Port Adelaide star Stuart Dew played a key role in the Hawks premiership win and five years on some more shrewd recruiting paid off in a big way.
Brian Lake and Jack Gunston were the Hawks' best two players in the Grand Final and since that 2008 triumph the Hawks have also added former Kangaroos duo Josh Gibson and David Hale.
Jonathan Simpkin was delisted by Sydney and Geelong but is now a premiership winning Hawk while via the draft the club addressed a lack of leg speed via the recruitment of Isaac Smith and Brad Hill.

HAWKS' TACKLING
All the talk leading into the Grand Final was about Fremantle's defensive pressure but the Hawks beat them at their own game.
Hawthorn won the tackle count 80-65 with Liam Shiels leading the way with nine while Cyril Rioli created havoc up forward laying seven of his own.
The Hawks also won the clearance count by eight despite Aaron Sandilands dominating the ruck.

DAVID MUNDY
If people across the country didn't already know, this man is a star.
Mundy was instrumental in the Dockers' third quarter fightback and was clearly Fremantle's best player gathering 28 disposals, 7 clearances and 8 tackles.
With Mundy, Nathan Fyfe, Stephen Hill, Michael Barlow and the best tagger in the business in Ryan Crowley the Dockers boast a midfield that will be a force for years to come.

IN THE OUTHOUSE

FREMANTLE'S CONVERSION
Last year the yips struck the Hawks on Grand Final day and this year it was Fremantle's turn and ultimately it cost the Dockers any chance of winning.
Nat Fyfe set the tone early with two first quarter shanks while in the last quarter Hayden Ballantyne got the staggers as his team was making one last surge.
Ross Lyon suffered the same fate with St Kilda in 2009 when they went down to Geelong by 12 points.

GRAND FINAL AESTHETICS
The bar has been set high in recent years but this year's Grand Final wasn't one for the archives.
It wasn't a bad game by any means but it lacked the individual highlights of previous years. But I'm sure Hawthorn fans aren't complaining.

ZAC DAWSON
Dawson has been a fine player for the Dockers and played well on Grand Final day in the past with St Kilda but this time he had a shocker.
Jack Gunston was too nimble and too smart for Dawson and his four goals out of 11 played a huge role in the Hawks' win.

COUNTDOWN CLOCK
The atmosphere in the seconds leading up to the first bounce is so electrifying there is no need to add anything to it. The countdown clock to the most anticipated bounce of the season isn't necessary.

DOCKER FORWARDS
Matthew Pavlich and Michael Walters came into the game in the third term but for most of the game the Dockers' forwards had little impact.
Hayden Ballantyne and Chris Mayne were well below their usual standards while Zac Clarke has no impact at all.
Four of Hawthorn's top six possession winners… Grant Birchall, Brian Lake, Luke Hodge and Josh Gibson… are defenders, indicating Fremantle's famed forward pressure wasn't up to its usual standard.

16.42 | 0 komentar | Read More

PM's XIII too strong for PNG

Jarryd Hayne in PNG with the PM's XIII. Source: DailyTelegraph

AUSTRALIA'S Prime Minister's XIII rugby league side has defeated Papua New Guinea 50-10, with the only surprise being the absence of the usual crowd violence.

Several players pushed their claims for selection in next month's World Cup, including Parramatta's Jarryd Hayne, who has made known his desire to be in the squad.

Hayne scored the opening try of the match in the PNG city of Kokopo, and was quickly followed onto the scoreboard by NSW and Australia teammate James Tamou.

A third try by Brent Tate put Australia up 18-0.

Heavy rain started to fall in the game's second half, but the visitors, coached by NSW State of Origin coach Laurie Daley, still racked up tries to David Shillington, Aidan Sezer, Kevin Gordon, Josh Morris and a second to Hayne.

The Kumuls struck back with tries either side of halftime to Israel Eliab and 18-year-old Nene MacDonald.

The annual match draws huge crowds in PNG, the only country in the world where rugby league is the national sport.

Outside the 4,000-capacity stadium a crowd of about 6,000 well-behaved people gathered in the hope of seeing the match, with some of the local crowd scaling 30-metre telegraph poles to see the game.

Usually local police have to deploy tear gas to disperse the crowd.

16.42 | 0 komentar | Read More

Broken neck ends Richie's title dream

Hello, you either have JavaScript turned off or an old version of Adobe's Flash Player.

MANLY'S Richie Fa'aoso will miss the NRL grand final due to a broken neck.

Contrary to reports, his career is not over, with the tough prop set to return to NRL football for round one next season.

The Sea Eagles said in a statement: "Scans today revealed that Richard Fa'aoso has sustained a fracture of his C7 vertebrae and will miss the 2013 Grand Final.

"X-­Rays taken at hospital after the Sea Eagles' win over the Rabbitohs on Friday night did not show any damage, however an MRI scan subsequently identified the broken bone in Richard's neck.

"He is stable and continues to improve. He will however miss the grand final and will be in a neck brace for six weeks.

"The Sea Eagles medical staff are confident there will be no long-­term issues and Richard will be back to 100 per cent by the start of the 2014 season.

"Understandably Richard is devastated about missing the game and we ask that his privacy be respected at this time. The club will be making no further comment at this stage.

16.42 | 0 komentar | Read More