AFLTips.Com Review News
Round 4 - 22 April 2001
w: http://www.afltips.com/
e: adrian@afltips.com
* Brought to you in conjunction with BigFooty.com - http://www.bigfooty.com/
* Play the BigFooty Fantasy Footy game here - http://footy.virtualsports.com.au/?partner_id=1
+----------+
INDEX
1) Prize Draw
2) "Weekly Round-Up" - previews of all matches from our Regular
Contributors
3) Various info about AFLTips.Com
+----------+
1) Prize Draw
No reply yet from our Round 4 prize winner – so there's one
Saints geurnsey stubby holder going begging at the moment...
Prize draw details can be found here: http://www.afltips.com/winaprize.html
Until next time,
Adrian Groves
adrian@afltips.com
PS: Support your club - become a member TODAY!
+----------+
2) Weekly Round-Up
from our Regular Contributors http://www.afltips.com/people/
(E-mail adrian@afltips.com if you'd like to become a
contributor.)
**********
Collingwood v. Richmond
Friday, 20 April 2001 - MCG 7:40 PM
Well where does one start when reporting on this game would it be fair
to say that perhaps Collingwood's inability to play four quarters last
night cost it the game or to be fairer was it Richmond's early pressure
which shut out the pies that won them the game. Well depending on who
you tipped I guess any one of those reasons will apply.
The crowd was monstrous 78,000 thousand people if you don't mind
proving that you don't have to be last years grand finalist to draw a
huge one.
And being in the centre of the ground as both sides ran through there
respective banners it was enormous and something I will never forget
the crowd pardon the pun roared with approval.One never knows what to
expect from a Collingwood / Richmond game as the position on the ladder
usually has no bearing on the result and last night's game was no
different.
Collingwood started of from where they finished the week before and
that was kicking goals but then the game turned Richmonds backline was
relentless Collingwood simply gave away to many goals in turnovers.
The Collingwood forwards were not bagging goals instead spraying shots
way across the goal line Richmond grew with confidence and at 3/4 time
had a match winning lead.
The real game began with the commencement of the final quarter as the
youngest team in the competition slammed on 5 unanswered goals to get
within one point of a very dispirited Richmond team.The crowd went into
a frenzy but then Richmond kicked two goals and won the game.
It will be a reminder to both clubs that further improvement is needed
if they want to be around in September. Richmond's weak surrender of
such a 3/4 time advantage was gutless and Collingwood must realise that
to win game of football consistently it must put in for 4 quarters the
team that won last night can celebrate a win but it was nothing more
and the loser can lament on the one that simply got away.
But it was entertaining the bums on the seats ended up witnessing a
battle right down to the wire and in a competition already so uneven
that was a sigh of relief.
RICHMOND 13 8 86
COLLINGWOOD 10 11 71
RICHMOND BEST.. HILTON CAMERON KELLAWAY
COLLINGWOOD BEST.. FRASER WAKELIN RICHARDSON
REPORTS.. Malloy for charging Gasper 'What a joke'.
- MagpieJoffa http://www.afltips.com/people/magpiejoffa.html
**********
Sydney v. Essendon
Friday, 20 April 2001 - SCG 7:40 PM
The stage was set for an upset. The Swans had won three games through
hard work and talent, whereas Essendon were coming off a shock loss,
and had several key players out injured. The rain was pouring down, and
a fanatical SCG crowd was ready to roar the Swans home. However, on the
night, it was the qualities the Bombers had displayed all through 2000
that allowed them to cruise home against Sydney. Their effectiveness,
their cleanliness of disposal and their use of the ball were all in a
class above the Swans. Even though the home side had more possessions,
and entered their forward fifty practically the same number of times,
they always looked scrappy compared to the precision of Essendon.
Although both sides struggled early in the greasy conditions, the
Bombers were the first to adapt, kicking ten straight goals after the
Swans had clawed their way back to within two points early in the
second quarter. Players like Mercuri and Ramanauskas began to get
heavily involved, and feeding a forward-line saturated with talent,
with Lucas, Barnard, McVeigh and Caracella scoring goals. In the third
term, the Bombers continued their run, and had consistent performers
all over the ground. Blake Caracella, in particular, was influential,
collecting 25 possessions and kicking three goals. Mark Johnson, with
ten touches in the third quarter, was another contributor, as Essendon
sealed the game up shortly after half-time. From then on, the game
lacked any real spark. The Swans managed a couple of untidy goals, but
still ended up 47 points behind the reigning premiers.
For Essendon, not only does the convincing win restore any confidence
lost in the previous week, it also provided an excellent opportunity
for their young players to perform. Peverill, Forster-Knight and
McVeigh all performed solidly, and will be hard to overlook for next
week's 'blockbuster' against Collingwood, when a number of players will
be returning from injury.
For Sydney, it was a very disappointing night. However, the continued
form of Darryn Cresswell, with 30 disposals, and consistent efforts
from Matthews, Bolton and Kirk give them some cause for optimism ahead
of their tough round 5 match away to Melbourne. They will probably be
missing Rohan Warfe, who injured his shoulder after an Essendon forward
took a screamer over him.
This game provided a timely reminder that the rest of the league still
has to go a long way to catch the Bombers in terms of consistency, and
that Sydney must learn to beat the top teams before they can challenge
for a top four position.
- TomFC http://www.afltips.com/people/tomfc.html
**********
Carlton v. Adelaide
Saturday, 21 April 2001 - Optus Oval 2:10 PM
ADELAIDE 4.3 6.4 7.6 9.8 (62) CARLTON 1.1 4.1 5.3 8.5 (53)
Goals: Adelaide: M Ricciuto 4 P Vardy 3 S Welsh S Goodwin. Carlton: M
Lappin 4 T Hotton 2 R Houlihan A Koutoufides.
Best: Adelaide: D Jarman B Hart N Smart T Edwards M Ricciuto S Goodwin.
Carlton: B Ratten A Hickmott M Lappin S Freeborn S Beaumont C Bradley.
Adelaide came out and did what know one thought they could, and for at
least the moment they have salvaged their season.
It funny how sport and footy bring you down to earth.
Carlton were coming off one of their best ever wins and had the
services back of three of the best players ever to don the navy blue
jumper and Adelaide after a disastrous start to the season were coming
to a venue where they had only won three times in nineteen attempts.
The return of Darren Jarman and the late withdrawal of Scott Camporeale
was always going to make it a much closer affair.
The conditions were torrential and the game was a chance to be called
off with electrical storms raging al around.
It was the old firm for the Crows who were inspirational; Jarman, Vardy
and especially Ricciuto. For the Blues, Brett Ratten was best on
ground with 37 touches.
At the end of the day, the sides were separated by the jump that the
Crows were able to get on the Blues early. The Blues had a 20 point
deficit and quarter time which they tried to whittle down all day but
in the end only got it down to 9.
Carlton now have Collingwood to look forward to in the Federation
Celebration blockbuster. Both sides are 2-2 and Carlton would be wary
after the Pies won the corresponding fixture last year.
The Crows have the Kangaroos at home and a win there would put them at
2-3 and light years away from the gloom and doom they only felt a few
days ago.
A week is indeed a long time in football. Just ask the Crows and the
Blues.
- David Wiseman
**********
Western Bulldogs v. Brisbane
Saturday, 21 April 2001 - Colonial Stadium 2:10 PM
It was always going to be a hard day at the office for the Lions boys,
with five big name players not named in the side due to injuries. Add
to that, the pressure of playing in Melbourne unsure of whether it
would be an indoor or outdoor game and the Bulldogs clearly had the
advantage. 20,322 fans came to Colonial stadium on a stormy day which
(thanks to the roof) had no impact on the game.
Paul Hudson had a day he will remember many years from now kick eight
straight goals and clearly dominated the forward lines! The two sides
are know for their scratching and tussles and sections of the game
certainly showed this feeling. However there wasn't much tussle in the
game with the Doggies securing a big win. A big influencing factor was
the centre clearances. Luke Darcy far and away performed as a match
winner out performing the inexperience of 'big Beau'. There were eleven
different goal kickers for the bulldogs to the Lions 7.
Other strong performers were Johnson, Cox, West, Croft, Romero and
Harrison of the Bulldogs. For the Lions Voss played a usual good game
along with Headland, Picken and Michael. The Lions were unable to hold
their man all day and only went forward by little chip passes, causing
little momentum. The win pushed the Western Bulldogs into the eight and
the Lions further down the ladder.
Final scores:
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Final Score
W.Bulldogs 4.3 10.7 15.9 21.14 21.14 140
B. Lions 2.3 6.6 10.11 12.15 12.15 87
A percentage booster for the Doggies.
- Josh Hemelaar http://www.afltips.com/people/joshhemellar.com
**********
Fremantle v. West Coast
Saturday, 21 April 2001 - Subiaco 5:40 PM (7:40 PM AEST)
WEST COAST 3.4 7.9 9.14 16.16 (112)
FREMANTLE 1.3 5.6 10.8 13.10 (88)
Goals: West Coast: M Gardiner 5 D Banfield 3 B Cousins S Cummings T
Wilson 2 M Merenda Fremantle: S McManus 3 D Bandy 2 D Metropolis P
Hazelby T Modra H Black M Carr A Grover J Longmuir C Waterhouse.
Best: West Coast: M Gardiner B Banfield B Cousins P Matera A MacIntosh
C Morrison. Fremantle: A Fletcher S McManus P Hazelby J Longmuir P Bell
M Carr.
Injuries: West Coast: D Kemp (concussion). Fremantle: C Waterhouse
(hamstring).
Crowd: 38,804 at Subiaco Oval.
This game lived in the shadow of last years bloodbath, which descended
into a running brawl with innumerable reports and suspensions. The
villain of that piece, the then West Coast ruckman Gardiner, turned
hero tonight at centre half forward with five goals in a best on ground
performance.
The game started evenly enough before West Coast kicked away before the
first change. Freo came back again in the second quarter before
Waterhouse was forced to come off with a damaged hamstring. At that
stage he was playing electrifying footy and threatening to blow the
game open, after that the Weagles were able to bounce back.
Waterhouse's fitness, or lack thereof, must be a concern to Gerard
Neesham, as he is a pivotal point in the Painters and Dockers being
able to be a competitive team.
But it was the unlikely figure of Bandy that kicked a couple of goals
during a Fremantle third quarter recovery that saw them draw level at
three-quarter time.
But the scoreline was illusory owing itself largely to the Eagles
inaccuracy more than anything else. While the game may have been in
balance on paper it would have been an injustice if the Eagles had of
stumbled in the Western Australian derby for they were playing the
better footy.
The Weagles have lacked a dominant centre half forward and hopefully
Gardiner being shifted from the ruck will allow him to fill this role.
They've now strung two wins together on the trot and have shown that
they will continue to rebuild this year.
As for Freo, well, the year just gets longer and longer - but don't
write them off. Freo have the personnel to play good footy, they're
certainly passionate, and they should be a lot more useful than an
inflatable anchor.
- Phil Doyle http://www.afltips.com/people/phildoyle.html
**********
Port Adelaide v. St Kilda
Saturday, 21 April 2001 - Football Park 7:10 PM (7:40 PM AEST)
Q1 Port St. Kilda
Q2 6.6 0.2
Q3 10.8 5.5
Q4 14.10 6.5
Final 17.12.114 7.8.50
Goals:
PORT ADELAIDE: P.Burgoyne 4, S.Dew 4, G.Wanganeen 3, R.James 2,
C.Cockatoo-Collins 1, F.Francis 1, J.Schofield 1, N.Stevens 1
ST KILDA: M.Gale 2, S.Milne 2, B.Voss 2, R.Harvey 1
"Home sweet home", "there's no place like home" and "home is where the
heart is" are all favourite sayings of many AFL teams, although none
more than Port Adelaide at present. On Saturday night in front of
27,017 people with seemingly the 17 being the only Saints fans, Port
demolished St Kilda to the tune of 64 points in a near faultless
display. Even Saints coach Malcolm 'Uh-Oh' Blight recognised the fact
after the game by lavishing praise upon The Power. It was Port's third
win for the season (all won at Football Park) and puts them in the top
four on the AFL Ladder.
The difference between these two teams on this occasion was gigantic.
Port had a decisive breeze in the first quarter and utilised it
superbly, kicking six goals to none by quarter time. StKilda had their
plans thwarted early when Barry Hall, finally getting a chance in the
forward line, became injured and consequently ruled out of the game.
They would also be without Loewe for most of the first half as he
gained treatment for a niggling injury, while other Saints players all
but wrote themselves out of the match in other less respectful methods,
with the exception of Harvey, Brett Voss and debutant Stephen Milne who
all tried. Only one StKilda player (Harvey) was able to gather more
than 20 possessions for the match and only four Saints managed goals.
On the other end of the playing spectrum, Port Adelaide were at their
best. In addition to the first quarter onslaught, they opened the
second term with two goals into the breeze, with Jarrad Schofield
immediately having an effect off the bench. When he goaled in the
second quarter followed by Burgoyne a minute later, there was shades of
the Magpies v Bulldogs 3rd Quarter the week before at Colonial. StKilda
produced one pocket of solid football for the match when they scored
four unanswered goals with the wind, but Port had all the answers. They
went on to bury The Saints in the second half by scoring another seven
goals to StKilda's two, with Power players Burgoyne and Dew scoring
four goals each for the match and ex-captain Wanganeen three.
In what must be a disappointing result for StKilda, important players
Burke, Everitt, Hamill, Loewe, Gehrig, Lawrence, Aussie Jones and
Andrew Thompson were all kept goalless and to a dozen or less
possessions each. Next week's round against Carlton appears ominous,
but it could also be these players' chance to take the initiative and
find that elusive form. With one win from four matches their season may
almost depend on it.
Port will come up against Geelong at Shell Stadium and will no doubt be
considered by many tipsters as a fair chance. They are playing how we
expect a team like Brisbane to play (and vice versa). Port look
terrific domestically but when they do have to leave home again, will
they survive?
- matto http://www.afltips.com/people/matto/html
**********
Geelong v. Kangaroos
Sunday, 22 April 2001 - Shell Stadium 2:10 PM
The trip from Melbourne to Geelong is a boring one at the best of
times. Adding roadworks doesn't help. Adding two days of torrential
rain makes it worse. When your team is also 0-3 after 3 games, that
trip down to Shell Stadium is a real test for even the most ardent
supporter.
After managing to swim through the carpark, and buying an undercover
seat, it was a pleasure to witness a rare occurrence at an AFL match -
a VFL match between the two genuine AFL sides' reserves.
It soon became apparent that the entire ground was under several
centimetres of water, and that it would not be a free-flowing, highly-
skilled game, but a game which would be won by sheer determination and
a hard attack at the footy.
The electronic scoreboard wasn't working, and the cheer squads didn't
bother with banners in the gale force winds, as the sides ran out into
the shocking conditions for the start of the game.
As was expected, the game was scrappy from the outset, but it took only
a couple of minutes for Adam Houlihan to bang through the first goal
for the Cats. It would be the only time they held the lead, as the
Kangaroos quickly responded with two of their own. The quick goals
early weren't to provide a true indication of the rest of the game, as
it eventuated to be a low-scoring scrappy affair. After initially
rgaining the lead, the Kangaroos kicked another three for the remained
of the quarter to take a 28 point lead into quarter-time. This was a
massive lead in the conditions, even though the Kangaroos had kicked
with a strong wind in the first quarter.
The Cats lifted a notch in the second quarter, and reduced the lead
with two goals to White and Burns. Geelong failed to fully capitalise
on the wind at their backs, as they kicked two goals to one for the
quarter, inaccuracy costing them dearly. The Kangaroos led by 19 points
at the main break, but Geelong looked out of it from the start. Their
three key forwards - White, Bizzell and Mensch - had hardly got a kick,
as their direct opponents - Martyn, Archer and Colbert - played tight
and accountable football, and adapted better to the conditions.
Colbert in particular was outstanding. Getting booed from the start
didn't faze the former Geelong skipper, as he rose above the immature
heckling of the crowd, and put in a magnificent performance to give
former teammate David Mensch a football lesson.
The footballing lesson continued in the second half, as Geelong's key
forwards continued to struggle. The only goal of the quarter, by either
side, was a slightly lucky goal from Burns. Burns had possession of the
ball, with Troy Makepeace is hot pursuit. makepeace applied the tackle
and the ball spilled in front of Burns. The umpire let it go, and Burns
was able to regain hold of the ball and slot through a goal from close
range, to leave the Cats within 16 points at three-quarter time.
With the Cats having the advantage of the breeze in the last quarter,
the result was far from a foregone conclusion. However, the Kangaroos
dominated the last quarter by playing determined football, keeping the
ball close to the boundary line and playing safe as much as possible.
King, McCartney, and Stevens repelled may Geelong attacks, and Shannon
Grant provided a marking option up forward for the Kangaroos. They were
determined not to let this game get away from them.
Geelong had a few forward forays in the final term, but none resulted
in goals. David King kicked the sealer for North with a snap from close
range, and it was a fitting finish to a great game by the attacking
wingman. By the end of the game, both sides played games worthy of
respect, but it was the Kangaroos willingness to adapt to the
conditions that saw them win the game. An advertisement for the skills
of the game, it was not, but it was a hard-fought match both teams
could be proud of.
Final Scores : Kangaroos 7.11.53 def. Geelong 4.9.33
Highlight : Gutsy football played by both teams.
Lowlight : The rain which didn't let up once.
Best Players :
Kangaroos - Colbert, Martyn, King, Harvey, Stevens, Carey.
Geelong - Sholl, Graham, Ling, Spriggs, Murphy.
- Dark Avenger http://www.afltips.com/people/darkavenger.html
**********
Hawthorn v. Melbourne
Sunday, 22 April 2001 - MCG 2:10 PM
Hawthorn: 4.6 4.9 6.14 11.17 11.17 (83)
Melbourne 1.2 4.5 4.7 5.14 5.14 (44)
Goals: Hawthorn: A.Lord 5, J.Barker 2, B.Dixon 2, D.Chick 1, S.Crawford
1.
Melbourne; D.Neitz 2, B.Green 1, S.Woewodin 1, A.Yze 1
Best: Hawthorn; D.Chick, A.Lord, D.Harford, A.Lekkas, S.Crawford,
Graham.
Melbourne; P.Walsh, S.Woewodin, A.Nicholson, D.Ward, A.Yze, D.Neitz,
D.Schwarz
Injuries: None
Reports: None
Attendance: 30,113 at the MCG
The bulk of this game was a pretty tight affair played in atrocious
conditions, but it was Hawthorn's ability to adapt to the wet in the
first quarter that won them the game.
The weather closed in all weekend across Victoria and it was Hawthorn's
desperate wet weather football and ability to support each other in the
contest that won them a mountain of possession early on.
Neil Daniher reminded his boys that there was no point in trying to
play fancy football and the Demons bounced back in the second term. In
particular a goal off the deck from the enigmatic Yze marked the
turnaround in the Melbourne side. But they were playing catch up
football in unforgiving conditions, and in the end it was too big an
ask.
Chick and the rest of the Hawthorn midfielders did will in an area
where Melbourne usually dominate. McDonald and Neitz did good, while
Nicholson and Ingerson battled hard for the Fuschias down the back.
Farmer couldn't get into the game, and White was quiet in the ruck.
Lord was given too much room by the Dees and he responded accordingly
by kicking 5 goals in a low scoring affair, while Joel Smith played
well for the Hawkers defence.
Melbourne kicked 1.5 in the final stanza before a shocking 50 metre
decision against Leoncelli lead to Dixon kicking a Hawthorn goal, from
there the Dees dropped their heads in an alarming fashion and the
Mayblooms ran away with it in the end after leading all day. the Hawks
ended up with 68 more possessions overall.
Hawthorn are mudrunners, no doubt about that, and coach Schwab will be
pleased with this effort. They are a stronger side in 2001 that eserves
their position alone at the top of the ladder and are good things for a
top four finish. Probably their only great obstacle may be complacency.
As for Melbourne, well, if you're going to pick them check the weather
first.
- Phil Doyle http://www.afltips.com/people/phildoyle.html
+----------+
Get a free joke in your e-mail every day from
DailyJokes.com.au!
Go to: http://www.dailyjokes.com.au/
<mailto:list@dailyjokes.com.au&body=subscribe>
+----------+
3) Info about AFLTips.Com
Feel free to forward this newsletter on to your mates.
AFLTips.Com is not associated with the Australian Football League
in any way. We just talk about them. A lot.
The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those
of Adrian Groves. I recommend that you do your own independent
research before acting on ANY information found in this e-mail.
In fact I demand it - and let me know what you find out...
If you received this e-mail from a friend and wish to SUBSCRIBE,
go to http://www.afltips.com/ and fill out the form on the front
page.
Copyright (C) Adrian Groves, 2001
ENDS
*****************************************************************
Round 4 - 22 April 2001
w: http://www.afltips.com/
e: adrian@afltips.com
* Brought to you in conjunction with BigFooty.com - http://www.bigfooty.com/
* Play the BigFooty Fantasy Footy game here - http://footy.virtualsports.com.au/?partner_id=1
+----------+
INDEX
1) Prize Draw
2) "Weekly Round-Up" - previews of all matches from our Regular
Contributors
3) Various info about AFLTips.Com
+----------+
1) Prize Draw
No reply yet from our Round 4 prize winner – so there's one
Saints geurnsey stubby holder going begging at the moment...
Prize draw details can be found here: http://www.afltips.com/winaprize.html
Until next time,
Adrian Groves
adrian@afltips.com
PS: Support your club - become a member TODAY!
+----------+
2) Weekly Round-Up
from our Regular Contributors http://www.afltips.com/people/
(E-mail adrian@afltips.com if you'd like to become a
contributor.)
**********
Collingwood v. Richmond
Friday, 20 April 2001 - MCG 7:40 PM
Well where does one start when reporting on this game would it be fair
to say that perhaps Collingwood's inability to play four quarters last
night cost it the game or to be fairer was it Richmond's early pressure
which shut out the pies that won them the game. Well depending on who
you tipped I guess any one of those reasons will apply.
The crowd was monstrous 78,000 thousand people if you don't mind
proving that you don't have to be last years grand finalist to draw a
huge one.
And being in the centre of the ground as both sides ran through there
respective banners it was enormous and something I will never forget
the crowd pardon the pun roared with approval.One never knows what to
expect from a Collingwood / Richmond game as the position on the ladder
usually has no bearing on the result and last night's game was no
different.
Collingwood started of from where they finished the week before and
that was kicking goals but then the game turned Richmonds backline was
relentless Collingwood simply gave away to many goals in turnovers.
The Collingwood forwards were not bagging goals instead spraying shots
way across the goal line Richmond grew with confidence and at 3/4 time
had a match winning lead.
The real game began with the commencement of the final quarter as the
youngest team in the competition slammed on 5 unanswered goals to get
within one point of a very dispirited Richmond team.The crowd went into
a frenzy but then Richmond kicked two goals and won the game.
It will be a reminder to both clubs that further improvement is needed
if they want to be around in September. Richmond's weak surrender of
such a 3/4 time advantage was gutless and Collingwood must realise that
to win game of football consistently it must put in for 4 quarters the
team that won last night can celebrate a win but it was nothing more
and the loser can lament on the one that simply got away.
But it was entertaining the bums on the seats ended up witnessing a
battle right down to the wire and in a competition already so uneven
that was a sigh of relief.
RICHMOND 13 8 86
COLLINGWOOD 10 11 71
RICHMOND BEST.. HILTON CAMERON KELLAWAY
COLLINGWOOD BEST.. FRASER WAKELIN RICHARDSON
REPORTS.. Malloy for charging Gasper 'What a joke'.
- MagpieJoffa http://www.afltips.com/people/magpiejoffa.html
**********
Sydney v. Essendon
Friday, 20 April 2001 - SCG 7:40 PM
The stage was set for an upset. The Swans had won three games through
hard work and talent, whereas Essendon were coming off a shock loss,
and had several key players out injured. The rain was pouring down, and
a fanatical SCG crowd was ready to roar the Swans home. However, on the
night, it was the qualities the Bombers had displayed all through 2000
that allowed them to cruise home against Sydney. Their effectiveness,
their cleanliness of disposal and their use of the ball were all in a
class above the Swans. Even though the home side had more possessions,
and entered their forward fifty practically the same number of times,
they always looked scrappy compared to the precision of Essendon.
Although both sides struggled early in the greasy conditions, the
Bombers were the first to adapt, kicking ten straight goals after the
Swans had clawed their way back to within two points early in the
second quarter. Players like Mercuri and Ramanauskas began to get
heavily involved, and feeding a forward-line saturated with talent,
with Lucas, Barnard, McVeigh and Caracella scoring goals. In the third
term, the Bombers continued their run, and had consistent performers
all over the ground. Blake Caracella, in particular, was influential,
collecting 25 possessions and kicking three goals. Mark Johnson, with
ten touches in the third quarter, was another contributor, as Essendon
sealed the game up shortly after half-time. From then on, the game
lacked any real spark. The Swans managed a couple of untidy goals, but
still ended up 47 points behind the reigning premiers.
For Essendon, not only does the convincing win restore any confidence
lost in the previous week, it also provided an excellent opportunity
for their young players to perform. Peverill, Forster-Knight and
McVeigh all performed solidly, and will be hard to overlook for next
week's 'blockbuster' against Collingwood, when a number of players will
be returning from injury.
For Sydney, it was a very disappointing night. However, the continued
form of Darryn Cresswell, with 30 disposals, and consistent efforts
from Matthews, Bolton and Kirk give them some cause for optimism ahead
of their tough round 5 match away to Melbourne. They will probably be
missing Rohan Warfe, who injured his shoulder after an Essendon forward
took a screamer over him.
This game provided a timely reminder that the rest of the league still
has to go a long way to catch the Bombers in terms of consistency, and
that Sydney must learn to beat the top teams before they can challenge
for a top four position.
- TomFC http://www.afltips.com/people/tomfc.html
**********
Carlton v. Adelaide
Saturday, 21 April 2001 - Optus Oval 2:10 PM
ADELAIDE 4.3 6.4 7.6 9.8 (62) CARLTON 1.1 4.1 5.3 8.5 (53)
Goals: Adelaide: M Ricciuto 4 P Vardy 3 S Welsh S Goodwin. Carlton: M
Lappin 4 T Hotton 2 R Houlihan A Koutoufides.
Best: Adelaide: D Jarman B Hart N Smart T Edwards M Ricciuto S Goodwin.
Carlton: B Ratten A Hickmott M Lappin S Freeborn S Beaumont C Bradley.
Adelaide came out and did what know one thought they could, and for at
least the moment they have salvaged their season.
It funny how sport and footy bring you down to earth.
Carlton were coming off one of their best ever wins and had the
services back of three of the best players ever to don the navy blue
jumper and Adelaide after a disastrous start to the season were coming
to a venue where they had only won three times in nineteen attempts.
The return of Darren Jarman and the late withdrawal of Scott Camporeale
was always going to make it a much closer affair.
The conditions were torrential and the game was a chance to be called
off with electrical storms raging al around.
It was the old firm for the Crows who were inspirational; Jarman, Vardy
and especially Ricciuto. For the Blues, Brett Ratten was best on
ground with 37 touches.
At the end of the day, the sides were separated by the jump that the
Crows were able to get on the Blues early. The Blues had a 20 point
deficit and quarter time which they tried to whittle down all day but
in the end only got it down to 9.
Carlton now have Collingwood to look forward to in the Federation
Celebration blockbuster. Both sides are 2-2 and Carlton would be wary
after the Pies won the corresponding fixture last year.
The Crows have the Kangaroos at home and a win there would put them at
2-3 and light years away from the gloom and doom they only felt a few
days ago.
A week is indeed a long time in football. Just ask the Crows and the
Blues.
- David Wiseman
**********
Western Bulldogs v. Brisbane
Saturday, 21 April 2001 - Colonial Stadium 2:10 PM
It was always going to be a hard day at the office for the Lions boys,
with five big name players not named in the side due to injuries. Add
to that, the pressure of playing in Melbourne unsure of whether it
would be an indoor or outdoor game and the Bulldogs clearly had the
advantage. 20,322 fans came to Colonial stadium on a stormy day which
(thanks to the roof) had no impact on the game.
Paul Hudson had a day he will remember many years from now kick eight
straight goals and clearly dominated the forward lines! The two sides
are know for their scratching and tussles and sections of the game
certainly showed this feeling. However there wasn't much tussle in the
game with the Doggies securing a big win. A big influencing factor was
the centre clearances. Luke Darcy far and away performed as a match
winner out performing the inexperience of 'big Beau'. There were eleven
different goal kickers for the bulldogs to the Lions 7.
Other strong performers were Johnson, Cox, West, Croft, Romero and
Harrison of the Bulldogs. For the Lions Voss played a usual good game
along with Headland, Picken and Michael. The Lions were unable to hold
their man all day and only went forward by little chip passes, causing
little momentum. The win pushed the Western Bulldogs into the eight and
the Lions further down the ladder.
Final scores:
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Final Score
W.Bulldogs 4.3 10.7 15.9 21.14 21.14 140
B. Lions 2.3 6.6 10.11 12.15 12.15 87
A percentage booster for the Doggies.
- Josh Hemelaar http://www.afltips.com/people/joshhemellar.com
**********
Fremantle v. West Coast
Saturday, 21 April 2001 - Subiaco 5:40 PM (7:40 PM AEST)
WEST COAST 3.4 7.9 9.14 16.16 (112)
FREMANTLE 1.3 5.6 10.8 13.10 (88)
Goals: West Coast: M Gardiner 5 D Banfield 3 B Cousins S Cummings T
Wilson 2 M Merenda Fremantle: S McManus 3 D Bandy 2 D Metropolis P
Hazelby T Modra H Black M Carr A Grover J Longmuir C Waterhouse.
Best: West Coast: M Gardiner B Banfield B Cousins P Matera A MacIntosh
C Morrison. Fremantle: A Fletcher S McManus P Hazelby J Longmuir P Bell
M Carr.
Injuries: West Coast: D Kemp (concussion). Fremantle: C Waterhouse
(hamstring).
Crowd: 38,804 at Subiaco Oval.
This game lived in the shadow of last years bloodbath, which descended
into a running brawl with innumerable reports and suspensions. The
villain of that piece, the then West Coast ruckman Gardiner, turned
hero tonight at centre half forward with five goals in a best on ground
performance.
The game started evenly enough before West Coast kicked away before the
first change. Freo came back again in the second quarter before
Waterhouse was forced to come off with a damaged hamstring. At that
stage he was playing electrifying footy and threatening to blow the
game open, after that the Weagles were able to bounce back.
Waterhouse's fitness, or lack thereof, must be a concern to Gerard
Neesham, as he is a pivotal point in the Painters and Dockers being
able to be a competitive team.
But it was the unlikely figure of Bandy that kicked a couple of goals
during a Fremantle third quarter recovery that saw them draw level at
three-quarter time.
But the scoreline was illusory owing itself largely to the Eagles
inaccuracy more than anything else. While the game may have been in
balance on paper it would have been an injustice if the Eagles had of
stumbled in the Western Australian derby for they were playing the
better footy.
The Weagles have lacked a dominant centre half forward and hopefully
Gardiner being shifted from the ruck will allow him to fill this role.
They've now strung two wins together on the trot and have shown that
they will continue to rebuild this year.
As for Freo, well, the year just gets longer and longer - but don't
write them off. Freo have the personnel to play good footy, they're
certainly passionate, and they should be a lot more useful than an
inflatable anchor.
- Phil Doyle http://www.afltips.com/people/phildoyle.html
**********
Port Adelaide v. St Kilda
Saturday, 21 April 2001 - Football Park 7:10 PM (7:40 PM AEST)
Q1 Port St. Kilda
Q2 6.6 0.2
Q3 10.8 5.5
Q4 14.10 6.5
Final 17.12.114 7.8.50
Goals:
PORT ADELAIDE: P.Burgoyne 4, S.Dew 4, G.Wanganeen 3, R.James 2,
C.Cockatoo-Collins 1, F.Francis 1, J.Schofield 1, N.Stevens 1
ST KILDA: M.Gale 2, S.Milne 2, B.Voss 2, R.Harvey 1
"Home sweet home", "there's no place like home" and "home is where the
heart is" are all favourite sayings of many AFL teams, although none
more than Port Adelaide at present. On Saturday night in front of
27,017 people with seemingly the 17 being the only Saints fans, Port
demolished St Kilda to the tune of 64 points in a near faultless
display. Even Saints coach Malcolm 'Uh-Oh' Blight recognised the fact
after the game by lavishing praise upon The Power. It was Port's third
win for the season (all won at Football Park) and puts them in the top
four on the AFL Ladder.
The difference between these two teams on this occasion was gigantic.
Port had a decisive breeze in the first quarter and utilised it
superbly, kicking six goals to none by quarter time. StKilda had their
plans thwarted early when Barry Hall, finally getting a chance in the
forward line, became injured and consequently ruled out of the game.
They would also be without Loewe for most of the first half as he
gained treatment for a niggling injury, while other Saints players all
but wrote themselves out of the match in other less respectful methods,
with the exception of Harvey, Brett Voss and debutant Stephen Milne who
all tried. Only one StKilda player (Harvey) was able to gather more
than 20 possessions for the match and only four Saints managed goals.
On the other end of the playing spectrum, Port Adelaide were at their
best. In addition to the first quarter onslaught, they opened the
second term with two goals into the breeze, with Jarrad Schofield
immediately having an effect off the bench. When he goaled in the
second quarter followed by Burgoyne a minute later, there was shades of
the Magpies v Bulldogs 3rd Quarter the week before at Colonial. StKilda
produced one pocket of solid football for the match when they scored
four unanswered goals with the wind, but Port had all the answers. They
went on to bury The Saints in the second half by scoring another seven
goals to StKilda's two, with Power players Burgoyne and Dew scoring
four goals each for the match and ex-captain Wanganeen three.
In what must be a disappointing result for StKilda, important players
Burke, Everitt, Hamill, Loewe, Gehrig, Lawrence, Aussie Jones and
Andrew Thompson were all kept goalless and to a dozen or less
possessions each. Next week's round against Carlton appears ominous,
but it could also be these players' chance to take the initiative and
find that elusive form. With one win from four matches their season may
almost depend on it.
Port will come up against Geelong at Shell Stadium and will no doubt be
considered by many tipsters as a fair chance. They are playing how we
expect a team like Brisbane to play (and vice versa). Port look
terrific domestically but when they do have to leave home again, will
they survive?
- matto http://www.afltips.com/people/matto/html
**********
Geelong v. Kangaroos
Sunday, 22 April 2001 - Shell Stadium 2:10 PM
The trip from Melbourne to Geelong is a boring one at the best of
times. Adding roadworks doesn't help. Adding two days of torrential
rain makes it worse. When your team is also 0-3 after 3 games, that
trip down to Shell Stadium is a real test for even the most ardent
supporter.
After managing to swim through the carpark, and buying an undercover
seat, it was a pleasure to witness a rare occurrence at an AFL match -
a VFL match between the two genuine AFL sides' reserves.
It soon became apparent that the entire ground was under several
centimetres of water, and that it would not be a free-flowing, highly-
skilled game, but a game which would be won by sheer determination and
a hard attack at the footy.
The electronic scoreboard wasn't working, and the cheer squads didn't
bother with banners in the gale force winds, as the sides ran out into
the shocking conditions for the start of the game.
As was expected, the game was scrappy from the outset, but it took only
a couple of minutes for Adam Houlihan to bang through the first goal
for the Cats. It would be the only time they held the lead, as the
Kangaroos quickly responded with two of their own. The quick goals
early weren't to provide a true indication of the rest of the game, as
it eventuated to be a low-scoring scrappy affair. After initially
rgaining the lead, the Kangaroos kicked another three for the remained
of the quarter to take a 28 point lead into quarter-time. This was a
massive lead in the conditions, even though the Kangaroos had kicked
with a strong wind in the first quarter.
The Cats lifted a notch in the second quarter, and reduced the lead
with two goals to White and Burns. Geelong failed to fully capitalise
on the wind at their backs, as they kicked two goals to one for the
quarter, inaccuracy costing them dearly. The Kangaroos led by 19 points
at the main break, but Geelong looked out of it from the start. Their
three key forwards - White, Bizzell and Mensch - had hardly got a kick,
as their direct opponents - Martyn, Archer and Colbert - played tight
and accountable football, and adapted better to the conditions.
Colbert in particular was outstanding. Getting booed from the start
didn't faze the former Geelong skipper, as he rose above the immature
heckling of the crowd, and put in a magnificent performance to give
former teammate David Mensch a football lesson.
The footballing lesson continued in the second half, as Geelong's key
forwards continued to struggle. The only goal of the quarter, by either
side, was a slightly lucky goal from Burns. Burns had possession of the
ball, with Troy Makepeace is hot pursuit. makepeace applied the tackle
and the ball spilled in front of Burns. The umpire let it go, and Burns
was able to regain hold of the ball and slot through a goal from close
range, to leave the Cats within 16 points at three-quarter time.
With the Cats having the advantage of the breeze in the last quarter,
the result was far from a foregone conclusion. However, the Kangaroos
dominated the last quarter by playing determined football, keeping the
ball close to the boundary line and playing safe as much as possible.
King, McCartney, and Stevens repelled may Geelong attacks, and Shannon
Grant provided a marking option up forward for the Kangaroos. They were
determined not to let this game get away from them.
Geelong had a few forward forays in the final term, but none resulted
in goals. David King kicked the sealer for North with a snap from close
range, and it was a fitting finish to a great game by the attacking
wingman. By the end of the game, both sides played games worthy of
respect, but it was the Kangaroos willingness to adapt to the
conditions that saw them win the game. An advertisement for the skills
of the game, it was not, but it was a hard-fought match both teams
could be proud of.
Final Scores : Kangaroos 7.11.53 def. Geelong 4.9.33
Highlight : Gutsy football played by both teams.
Lowlight : The rain which didn't let up once.
Best Players :
Kangaroos - Colbert, Martyn, King, Harvey, Stevens, Carey.
Geelong - Sholl, Graham, Ling, Spriggs, Murphy.
- Dark Avenger http://www.afltips.com/people/darkavenger.html
**********
Hawthorn v. Melbourne
Sunday, 22 April 2001 - MCG 2:10 PM
Hawthorn: 4.6 4.9 6.14 11.17 11.17 (83)
Melbourne 1.2 4.5 4.7 5.14 5.14 (44)
Goals: Hawthorn: A.Lord 5, J.Barker 2, B.Dixon 2, D.Chick 1, S.Crawford
1.
Melbourne; D.Neitz 2, B.Green 1, S.Woewodin 1, A.Yze 1
Best: Hawthorn; D.Chick, A.Lord, D.Harford, A.Lekkas, S.Crawford,
Graham.
Melbourne; P.Walsh, S.Woewodin, A.Nicholson, D.Ward, A.Yze, D.Neitz,
D.Schwarz
Injuries: None
Reports: None
Attendance: 30,113 at the MCG
The bulk of this game was a pretty tight affair played in atrocious
conditions, but it was Hawthorn's ability to adapt to the wet in the
first quarter that won them the game.
The weather closed in all weekend across Victoria and it was Hawthorn's
desperate wet weather football and ability to support each other in the
contest that won them a mountain of possession early on.
Neil Daniher reminded his boys that there was no point in trying to
play fancy football and the Demons bounced back in the second term. In
particular a goal off the deck from the enigmatic Yze marked the
turnaround in the Melbourne side. But they were playing catch up
football in unforgiving conditions, and in the end it was too big an
ask.
Chick and the rest of the Hawthorn midfielders did will in an area
where Melbourne usually dominate. McDonald and Neitz did good, while
Nicholson and Ingerson battled hard for the Fuschias down the back.
Farmer couldn't get into the game, and White was quiet in the ruck.
Lord was given too much room by the Dees and he responded accordingly
by kicking 5 goals in a low scoring affair, while Joel Smith played
well for the Hawkers defence.
Melbourne kicked 1.5 in the final stanza before a shocking 50 metre
decision against Leoncelli lead to Dixon kicking a Hawthorn goal, from
there the Dees dropped their heads in an alarming fashion and the
Mayblooms ran away with it in the end after leading all day. the Hawks
ended up with 68 more possessions overall.
Hawthorn are mudrunners, no doubt about that, and coach Schwab will be
pleased with this effort. They are a stronger side in 2001 that eserves
their position alone at the top of the ladder and are good things for a
top four finish. Probably their only great obstacle may be complacency.
As for Melbourne, well, if you're going to pick them check the weather
first.
- Phil Doyle http://www.afltips.com/people/phildoyle.html
+----------+
Get a free joke in your e-mail every day from
DailyJokes.com.au!
Go to: http://www.dailyjokes.com.au/
<mailto:list@dailyjokes.com.au&body=subscribe>
+----------+
3) Info about AFLTips.Com
Feel free to forward this newsletter on to your mates.
AFLTips.Com is not associated with the Australian Football League
in any way. We just talk about them. A lot.
The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those
of Adrian Groves. I recommend that you do your own independent
research before acting on ANY information found in this e-mail.
In fact I demand it - and let me know what you find out...
If you received this e-mail from a friend and wish to SUBSCRIBE,
go to http://www.afltips.com/ and fill out the form on the front
page.
Copyright (C) Adrian Groves, 2001
ENDS
*****************************************************************
