Zaharakis firms for Round 1

David Zaharakis looks in top shape at Essendon. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON star David Zaharakis emerged unscathed from his pre-season debut last night to enhance his chances of taking on Adelaide in next week's season-opener.

The goalkicking midfielder was ruled out of the Bombers' NAB Cup campaign with a quad injury, but he returned through the VFL yesterday and played three quarters, impressing with his touch.

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Zaharakis kicked a goal and is now a red-hot chance to be selected for the Round 1 clash against the Crows on Friday night.

Forward Scott Gumbleton stole the show, booting five goals as Essendon's VFL side crushed former affiliate Bendigo Gold in the trial match at Melbourne Airport.

But Dons father-son sensation Joe Daniher was a late withdrawal, ruled out with a corkie.

The Bombers are yet to roll out their No. 10 draft pick but Daniher has impressed with his first AFL pre-season.

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Geelong demolishes Pies at Cattery

Jimmy Bartel breaks clear against Collingwood. Picture: Stephen Harman Source: Herald Sun

IT WAS a mix of reliable regular performers and exciting new talent for Geelong in its practice match romp against Collingwood yesterday.

Gold Coast trade Josh Caddy and former athlete Mark Blicavs put in their bids for AFL season starts with impressive performances in the 51-point win at Simonds Stadium.

Caddy ran up 20 possessions and booted two goals with his strong work in the midfield and up forward in what Cats coach Chris Scott described as collectively "an overwhelmingly positive'' final tune-up.

"It was pretty important for Josh. He's still learning our system, he's one of a few players who hasn't been exposed to it for long and he got a lot of game-time leading into the season," Scott said.

"It wasn't crucial for his chances of playing Round 1. I've been pretty happy with the way he has been playing and he took another step forward today."

And Blicavs underlined that he might be able to hold down a ruck role if required early in the season. The steeplechase convert complemented his running ability with quick hands as he held his own in the ruck battles with experienced Magpie Darren Jolly.

"He just gives us another dimension. We're a long way from deciding what our best look is in there, but there's some chance he's a part of that even when our big guys come back," Scott said.

"I don't know how switched on Collingwood was, but in the NAB series against pretty good opposition, he has looked like he belongs. He still has a lot to learn, but if he continues the rate, he's going to be a capable footballer.

"I'm not one for massive statements, but there has never been a 198cm footballer who can run like him. If he doesn't play in the ruck, we're confident he can play in different positions.''

Billy Smedts gets tackled by Nick Maxwell. Picture: Stephen Harman Source: Herald Sun

The slick, quick Cats had an astonishing 14 goalkickers, with Jimmy Bartel, James Podsiadly, Allen Christensen, Mitch Brown and Caddy the multiple scorers. And that massive scoring sheet didn't include Tom Hawkins.

Collingwood scrounged only five goals in the first half, but the Pies dramatically lifted their workrate with 6.3 to 3.7 in the third quarter in a far more competitive effort.

Magpies coach Nathan Buckley said the "intensity reflected the practice match", but he wasn't happy the Cats had 41 scoring shots.

"The game plan is good, we're moving the ball all right. If you take today out of the equation, we feel like we've really progressed to where we need to be," Buckley said.

Big forward Quinten Lynch underlined his importance as an alternate target with four goals and Travis Cloke bagged only two in a fast, open contest made for high scoring.

Magpie Dane Swan in action against Geelong. Picture: Stephen Harman Source: Herald Sun

And Dayne Beams, Scott Pendlebury and Dane Swan were the only players to amass more than 30 possessions to indicate they're ready to go.

Suspended pair Steve Johnson and James Kelly will play with Geelong's VFL team today against a Collingwood team that contains Andrew Krakouer and Ben Hudson.

The Pies were missing at least eight regulars, including Luke Ball, Dale Thomas, Ben Reid, Alan Didak, Alex Fasolo, while Clinton Young was a late withdrawal with a suspected calf injury.

It was the first time a Collingwood team has played at the Cats' home since Round 15, 1999.

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No pressure on Robbie return

Robbie Gray at Moonta Bay during the Port Adelaide Power Football Club Community Camp on the Yorke Peninsula. Picture: Matt Turner Source: The Advertiser

PORT Adelaide forward Robbie Gray will make his comeback from knee surgery earlier than expected in the SANFL tomorrow.

But Power coach Ken Hinkley is putting no timeline on when Gray will return to AFL action this season.

"He'll play a half (for West Adelaide) this week and hopefully a bit longer next week and we'll progress from there," said Hinkley of his valued pinch-hitting midfielder.

"He is still in that rehab phase. We're just getting him ready and the best chance to be available for AFL football when his knee is ready to go. That is the important thing. And it is not far away.

"It is definitely not going to be far away for Robbie because he has moved really well for seven weeks on the training track.

"It is not something we are worried about. It's about ticking off the boxes to make sure that Robbie starts to build for competitive football.

"It's an open-ended (return). I'd love nothing better than it to be as soon as it possibly can, but we'll see a glimpse on Saturday night on how far away that might be."

At AFL level, the Power on Saturday will have two key pieces of its jigsaw puzzle in attack step up their claims for a place in the premiership-opening 22 - Essendon recruit Angus Monfries and highly rated key forward John Butcher. Each is to play a half against AFL premier Sydney at AAMI Stadium.

Port Adelaide recruit Angus Monfries. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

Monfries is resuming from a hamstring strain suffered in Port's NAB Cup openers and Butcher is back in action after double hip surgery in August.

"Angus comes back at an ideal time, really," Hinkley said.

"We'll get half a game into him this week and get him ready for Round 1 (against Melbourne on the MCG on March 31). We're really confident.

"Butcher will be a bit like Monfries. We thought it was important John get a taste for the (AFL) level and give himself the chance to be available for Round 1. This is the only opportunity before them to get him to play at AFL standard.

"He (Buchter) is really excited. He's had a long layoff, but he's been training and playing (SANFL trials) for a little while now so it is now a matter of stepping him up to the next level - and what a great opportunity against the Swans."
 

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Drubbing doesn't bother Dogs

Tory Dickson of the Bulldogs cools down during the practice match against Fremantle in Mandurah. Source: Getty Images

THE Western Bulldogs deny any momentum gained from the NAB Cup win against Hawthorn a fortnight ago was lost in last week's Fremantle drubbing.

The Bulldogs took a severely under-strength lineup to Western Australia last Saturday and paid the price with a 109-point loss.

But with a near-full compliment of players to choose from for tomorrow's final pre-season hitout against Richmond at VISY Park, Dogs assistant coach Shannon Grant said preparations for Round 1 were on track.

"I think more than anything (the Freo game) gave some of the older guys a chance to have a week off just to recover," Grant said.

"The demands of the game are pretty high these days and it is a long year so we're hoping it works the other way for us.

"It was a great experience for the kids to be able to go across, a lot of them haven't travelled yet interstate. Perth is a long trip, it takes a lot out of you.

"You certainly don't like to lose by that amount, but I still think we can take a lot from it."

Some teams hope for nothing more than a clean bill of health from their final practice match.

But Grant said the Dogs would be using the match as a tune-up for Round 1 against the Brisbane Lions in a fortnight.

"We'll certainly have a much stronger side in (than last week)," he said.

"So we'll be treating it as basically a full dress rehearsal and hope that we go in to Round 1 with some confidence under our belt."

The Bulldogs only have short-term injuries to Easton Wood (hamstring) and Jake Stringer (ankle) to worry about - and neither player has been ruled out of contention for Round 1.

Grant said the absence of any long-term injury concerns made the coaching staff's job much easier at this time of year.

"Being able to have a lot of depth makes for a lot more competition for spots," he said.

"We've got a healthy list and we're hoping to keep it that way."
 

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The Barometer: Round 1

Collingwood's Dale Thomas is struggling to be ready to go in Round 1. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD could be without Alan Didak, Luke Ball and Dale Thomas for Round 1, but Port Adelaide and the Western Bulldogs could boast full-strength sides.

See how your club is shaping up for its all-important Round 1 clash with the first installment of The Barometer for season 2013.

ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Brodie Smith (collarbone) 4-5 weeks
Ian Callinan (knee) test
Richard Tambling (back) test
Jason Porplyzia (stomach) test
Sam Shaw (knee) test

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SMALL forwards Ian Callinan and Jared Petrenko are up against it trying to make the cut with limited match fitness under their belts. Sam Shaw has struggled with patella tendonitis in his knee while Brodie Smith is out with a broken collarbone. Richard Tambling is battling a back complaint and is an unlikely starter in Round 1.

- Gilbert Gardiner

BRISBANE

INJURIES
Simon Black (knee) indefinite
Jesse O'Brien (groin) 2 weeks
Brent Staker (knee) 5 weeks
Matthew Leuenberger (achilles) 2-3 weeks

BY and large a healthy list with Matthew Leuenberger the only concern after an interrupted pre-season. It's hard to see the big ruckman lining up in Round 1 given his lack of match fitness. Champion Simon Black remains on the outer but the young Lions midfield has the talent to cover his loss.

- Gilbert Gardiner

VETERAN: Simon Black at Brisbane Lions training. Picture: Peter Wallis Source: The Courier-Mail

CARLTON

INJURIES
Jaryd Cachia (hamstring) TBA
Andrew Collins (ankle) test
David Ellard (hamstring) test
Andrew McInnes (knee) 16 weeks
Jarrad Waite (calf) 2 weeks

JARRAD Waite remains the main injury concern at Visy Park amid a bounty of tall timber options including three bona-fide ruckmen. Andrew McInnes is the only long-term injury on the list with fringe players Andrew Collins and David Ellard available for selection.

- Gilbert Gardiner

Click here to see this weekend's practice match squads

COLLINGWOOD

INJURY LIST
Ben Reid (knee) 1-2 weeks
Alan Didak (hamstring) 2-3 weeks
Luke Ball (knee) 3 weeks
Dale Thomas (ankle) 3-4 weeks
Tim Broomhead (glandular fever) 4 weeks
Michael Hartley (shoulder) 4-6 weeks
Corey Gault (groin) 6 weeks
Lachlan Keeffe (knee) 6-8 weeks
Brodie Grundy (back) 8 weeks

THE Pies will enter Round 1 with a hefty injury list, as they did last year. Ben Reid and Alan Didak are rough chances for the North Melbourne clash, but it looks a stretch to see Luke Ball or Dale Thomas take the field that match. Still, neither will be far away and of the rest only Lachie Keeffe will quickly strengthen the senior side. Boom ruckman Brodie Grundy could take a while to get stress fractures in his back right, but it'll be worth the wait. The Pies also have two rookies eligible for elevation prior to the season-opener, one of which will be journeyman Ben Hudson.

- Sam Landsberger

Magpies coach Nathan Buckley speaks to Luke Ball about he ongoing issues with hamstring soreness. Source: Getty Images

ESSENDON

INJURY LIST
Michael Hurley (ankle) likely
David Zaharakis (quad) doubtful
Jason Winderlich (groin) TBA

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MICHAEL Hurley will be fine, and David Zaharakis will audition for Round 1 in a VFL practice match tomorrow, say the Bombers. That reads as some serious relief for the Dons, who were monstered last year by injury. Hurley sported a moon boot after the win against GWS, but the club says that was only precautionary and he'll be fine to tackle the Crows. Zaharakis is yet to feature this pre-season, so will enter underdone, and while Winderlich won't play Round 1 he, too, isn't too far away despite no date being set on a return.

FREMANTLE

INJURY LIST
Matt Taberner (glandular fever) test
Aaron Sandilands (hamstring) 5 weeks
Anthony Morabito (knee) indefinite

AARON Sandilands is a massive blow, but ruck understudy Zac Clarke has performed supremely throughout the NAB Cup. Sandi won't be right until at least Round 3, with Ross Lyon expected to take a cautious approach with the star veteran. Morabito is tracking well from his tragic third knee reconstruction, which he underwent LARS surgery with. The Dockers regained a few stars across the NAB Cup from injury including David Mundy and Ryan Crowley and are in tip-top nick ahead of the Round 1 derby blockbuster next Saturday night.

- Sam Landsberger

Fremantle midfielder Anthony Morabito had LARS surgery to repair his injured right knee. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

GEELONG

INJURIES
Jed Bews (foot) TBA
George Burbury (foot) TBA
Josh Hunt (glandular fever) indefinite
Hamish McIntosh (knee) indefinite
Daniel Menzel (knee) 2 weeks
Trent West (knee) 2 weeks
Dawson Simpson (back) TBA
Stevie Johnson (suspension) Round 2
James Kelly (suspension) Round 2

THE Cats will be sweating on the fitness of Trent West to bolster their dwindling ruck stocks currently led by former Olympic aspirant Mark Blicavs. Recruit Hamish McIntosh remains the big unknown at the Cattery after having minor surgery on his knee last month. The former Kangaroos No.1 has struggled with niggling knee problems since breaking down last year. Dawson Simpson also had minor surgery on his back. Emerging forward Daniel Menzel would be rough chance to line up in Round 1 after undergoing snap LARS surgery in January to replace a damaged tendon in his left knee. Meanwhile, superboot Josh Hunt's battle with glandular fever continues.

- Gilbert Gardiner

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GOLD COAST SUNS

INJURY LIST
Matt Shaw (illness) available
Luke Russell (knee) available
Henry Schade (back) 1 week
Clay Cameron (groin) 2 weeks
Trent McKenzie (knee) 2 weeks
Tom Lynch (ankle) 2-4 weeks
Liam Patrick (hamstring) 2-3 weeks
Seb Tape (knee) 4 weeks
Nathan Bock (leg) indefinite
Campbell Brown (suspension) Round 7

IT looks a long list at first glance, but not to many serious worries for the Suns, Nathan Bock aside. Only defenders Bock and Seb Tape look certain to miss the season-opener against the Saints, with Liam Patrick, Tom Lynch, Clay Cameron and Trent McKenzie all outside chances to feature. And a list of that health bodes will with the Suns' golden run across the first two months of the season proper.

- Sam Landsberger

Nathan Bock just wants to get on with season 2013 as he endeavours to put last year's horror movie behind him. Picture: Adam Head Source: The Courier-Mail

GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY

INJURIES
Matthew Buntine (punctured lung) 6-8 weeks
Chad Cornes (knee) indefinite
James Growden (hip) test
Dom Tyson (knee) 8 weeks
Callan Ward (concussion) test
Jonathan O'Rourke (hamstring) 2 weeks
Will Hoskin-Elliott (back) available

No.2 pick Jonathan O'Rourke hamstrings remain a concern after the talented youngster broke down in his first competitive hit out. O'Rourke, plagued by hamstring injuries as a junior, left the field shortly after coming on as the substitute last week. Veteran Chad Cornes' career could be at the crossroads with the former Port Adelaide stalwart sidelined with a knee injury. Cornes also had surgery during the off-season to remove a cyst from his shoulder. Callan Ward will return after being subbed off with concussion last week. Will Hoskin-Elliott (back) is an outside chance at getting a call up after impressing for the Giants' reserves.

- Gilbert Gardiner

HAWTHORN

INJURY LIST
Cyril Rioli (ankle) likely
Luke Hodge (niggles) doubtful
Brendan Whitecross (knee) indefinite
Matt Suckling (knee) indefinite
Alex Woodward (knee) indefinite

The Hawks say Cyril Rioli will play the Round 1 blockbuster against Geelong, but Luke Hodge remains at long odds. He could return that weekend, but through the VFL, as the Hawks play it safe with their veteran. They did the same last year and he came back and booted five goals. Other than that the Hawks will enter the season relatively settled, given they know the fate of their three long-term knee victims.

- Sam Landsberger

Hawthorn defender Matthew Suckling will sit out the season after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his knee. Picture: Getty Source: Herald Sun

MELBOURNE

INJURY LIST
Jordie McKenzie (virus) available
Jack Viney (neck) test
Chris Dawes (hamstring) test
Tom McDonald (ankle) 1 week
Mitch Clark (foot) 2-4 weeks
Jack Trengove (foot) 2-4 weeks
Sam Blease (ankle) 2-4 weeks
Rohan Bail (concussion) 3 weeks
Max Gawn (hamstring) 3-5 weeks

SEVERAL Dees are locked in a battle with the clock to line up against Port Adelaide in Round 1. Heading that list is co-captain Jack Trengove and superboot Mitch Clark, who are both outside chances to resume through VFL affiliate Casey next week. You can lock Jack Viney in for a Round 1 debut regardless of whether he faces Gold Coast this weekend. The midfield terrier doesn't need another trail match to prove his worth to coach Mark Neeld after recovering from a neck strain. A fairly lengthy injury list for the Dees, but on the plus side is all could be back firing by next month.

- Sam Landsberger

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NORTH MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Taylor Garner (shoulder) TBA
Nathan Grima (back) TBA
Brent Harvey (suspended) Round 7
Scott McMahon (suspended) Round 2

ALL quiet in the Kangaroos medical room with Nathan Grima the only walk-up casualty leading into Round 1. Grima has struggled with a back complaint for most of the pre-season and looks to be racing the clock to be fit. Recruit Taylor Garner is being nursed along while Majak Daw (knee) is playing with strapping on his knee. Brent Harvey will sit out the first six weeks of the season serving suspensions for striking.

- Gilbert Gardiner

PORT ADELAIDE

INJURY LIST
Angus Monfries (hamstring) - available
John Butcher (hips) - available
Robbie Gray (knee) available
Brent Renouf (knee) available
Dom Cassisi (calf) 1 week
Brett Ebert (hamstring) 1 week
Nick Salter (foot) indefinite

THE Power will receive a massive boost this week when Robbie Gray returns after 11 months through the SANFL. The silky star joins plenty of Power stars ready to return, including Angus Monfries and John Butcher. Dom Cassisi and Brett Ebert will miss the final pre-season clash against the Swans but should suit-up against the Dees in Round 1, leaving just Nick Salter in the medical room. That's just about a full-strength side to attack Melbourne at the MCG.

- Sam Landsberger

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RICHMOND

INJURY LIST
Dylan Grimes (hamstring) 2-4 weeks
Nathan Foley (Achilles) 6-8 weeks
David Astbury (foot) 2-3 weeks

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THE Tigers have only two first-choice players on the injury list and are talking positively about both playing early in the season. The club says it is delighted by the success of Grimes' latest hamstring surgery and the injury-cursed defender is back in full training – but well short of match practice. Foley has started sprinting but will be carefully managed. Damien Hardwick says he will be available for selection "about Round 5-7". The unlucky Astbury seems out of Round 1 calculations. Competition for spots is high but there are likely to be at least a couple of new faces against the Blues on March 28 with top draftee Nick Vlastuin and former Port Adelaide defender Troy Chaplin both likely starters.

- Al Paton

New recruit to Richmond Troy Chaplin Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

ST KILDA

INJURIES
Daniel Markworth (knee) indefinite
Rhys Stanley (knee) 3 weeks
Sean Dempster (hamstring) 2-4 weeks

THE loss of Dempster, who finished third in the Saints' 2012 best-and-fairest, is a major blow. The defence could be even more exposed than usual for the opening rounds with Rhys Stanley also sidelined. The forward-turned-backman, who injured his knee during the NAB Cup, is improving rapidly and could be back as early as Round 2. Markworth has a long road back.

- Gilbert Gardiner

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SYDNEY

INJURY LIST
Nick Smith (knee) available
Marty Mattner (hip) available
Tommy Walsh (back) likely
Kurt Tippett (hand/suspension) Round 13
Gary Rohan (leg) indefinite
Alex Johnson (knee) indefinite

THE Swans lost Alex Johnson, most likely for the year, last week when the young premiership player twisted his left knee. He's in Melbourne this week deciding whether to undergo a traditional reconstruction or opt for LARS, but in better news for Sydney it will welcome back defenders Nick Smith and Marty Mattner from long-term layoffs this week. Tommy Walsh should be ready to go in Round 1 after a back injury, while Kurt Tippett's hand will be well and truly healed by the time his 11-game ban ends.

- Sam Landsberger

Sydney defender Alex Johnson will consider LARS surgery on his injured right knee. Picture: Getty Source: Getty Images

WEST COAST

INJURIES
Andrew Embley (hamstring) 2 weeks
Daniel Kerr (knee) 2 weeks
Nic Naitanui (groin) TBA
Sharrod Wellingham (ankle) 4 weeks
Mark Nicoski (hamstring) indefinite
Andrew Gaff (head) available
Chris Masten (quadricep) available

NIC Naitanui headlines the list of Eagles walk-up starters set to miss the club's opening round clash against Fremantle. Naitanui has battled a groin complaint during the pre-season. Look for veterans Andrew Embley and Daniel Kerr to line up in the Western Derby but no such hope for recruit Sharrod Wellingham. The former Magpie damaged ligaments in his ankle mucking around on a trampoline recently. Chris Masten sat out of the Eagles last NAB Cup match experiencing tightness in his quadriceps. He should be fine for Round 1 along with wingman Andrew Gaff who copped a knock to the head. Mark Nicoski has been listed as indefinite as snapping his hamstring.

- Gilbert Gardiner

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WESTERN BULLDOGS

INJURY LIST
Luke Dahlhaus (cork) available
Jake Stringer (ankle) 1-2 weeks
Easton Wood (hamstring) 1-2 weeks

ONLY minor concerns at the Doggies, who could still yet boast a clean bill of health when Round 1 rolls around. They open their season against the Lions at Etihad Stadium and running defender Easton Wood looms as the biggest worry. He strained his hamstring at the weekend but with two weeks in between could yet prove his fitness.

- Sam Landsberger

Jake Stringer enjoys a goal late in the 3rd qtr Picture: Klein Michael Source: Herald Sun

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Free parking in Cat parody

Geelong premiership forward Mathew Stokes has little regard for parking spots down at the Cattery

Travis Cloke has been sanctioned for parking in Gary Pert's car spot. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

VIDEO: WATCH Geelong forward Mathew Stokes' take on Travis Cloke's parking problem.

The Magpies forward was this week fined $1000 for repeatedly parking in the car space of club CEO Gary Pert.

The fine was later waived and replaced with volunteer nightshifts with the Salvation Army.

Geelong players saw the funny side of the story and have filmed a cheeky video for the club website.

In the video, Stokes risks the wrath of Cats CEO Brian Cook in the Simonds Stadium car park.

Stokes and Cloke can discuss their parking techniques tomorrow, with both named to play in a Collingwood v Geelong practice match at the Cattery.

Perhaps Stokes could offer the Magpies forward his spot for the day.

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Power set for Swans litmus test

Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley will measure his side's improvement against Sydney. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

PORT Adelaide believes its practice match against premiership side Sydney will be its best indication yet on how much the Power has improved under Ken Hinkley.

The club considers the Swans as the ideal opponent to use as a springboard into the home-and-away season and expect neither team to leave anything in the locker room.

"The last two practice games, generally, it's on,'' Hinkley said.

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The Saturday afternoon match at West Lakes will also be the players' last chance to make a case for selection for Round 1, with several fringe players desperate to lock down a spot.

Chad Wingard, the club's top draft pick in 2011, said the players had taken much confidence out of their win against West Coast in Alice Springs last weekend and would seek to continue in a similar vein.

"It's a great opportunity just to test ourselves,'' Wingard said.

"We've got a good team up again and it's just a good opportunity for people to put their name up for round one.

"That's what we're trying to do.''

Wingard said the path ahead had been clearer under the stewardship of Hinkley and a stocked-up coaching panel.

Chad Wingard gets his kick away. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

Port will continue to put emphasis on defence.

"We've got more focus areas,'' Wingard said.

"We stick to three different areas which we try to improve each week.

"I think we're all confident in where we're going. We've got the right path set for us now and with Ken and everybody on board I think we'll have a good year.''

"Just our pressure; our defensive skills helped us get the win, I think,'' Wingard said.

"We played as a team and stuck to our structures and that's what got us over the line.

"We've just got to make sure we do it again this week and put up a good effort against Sydney because they're another strong team.''

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Blues, Lions set for bumper years

Jonathan Brown will try and lead Brisbane to its first ever pre-season title on Friday night. Picture: Salpigtidis George Source: Herald Sun

LOCK in at least one of Carlton or the Brisbane Lions to burst into the top four this season and expect both to see September action.

That is if recent NAB Cup form is any guide to the season proper.

Not since Denis Pagan's bizarre pre-season success – where the Blues collected wok-shaped cups in 2005 and 2007 only to disastrously bomb out in the real stuff – has a NAB Cup grand finalist missed the eight.

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In fact, the past 10 pre-season grand finalists have unearthed winter-time success.

They've netted seven top-four finishes, two runner-ups and one premier, when the Cats collected the 2009 premiership double in the midst of their golden era.

Each of the past five NAB Cup deciders has foreshadowed a top-four side, while in 2009 and 2010 all four March grand finalists went on to seal double chances.

It took two Grand Finals for NAB Cup runner-up St Kilda to go down in September 2010, six months after it was trounced by a Barry Hall-led Western Bulldogs.

NAB Cup Grand Final. Western Bulldogs v St Kilda. Etihad Stadium. Barry Hall with the trophy. Picture: Darren Tindale Source: HWT Image Library

The Dogs finished fourth that season, edged by the Saints in a preliminary final.

Adelaide's rapid rise last season surprised most – but perhaps was to be expected after collecting the NAB Cup silverware.

The Crows beat West Coast for the pre-season title, before the Eagles went onto finish fifth.

TAB Sportsbet rates Carlton a $2.75 chance to finish in the top four this year, while the Lions are still at $15.

The Blues are $1.35 to make the eight, while Brisbane is sixth last in the betting line at $3.50.

Friday night's clash at Etihad Stadium will be a rematch of the 2007 decider, when the Blues downed the Lions, before NAB Cup grand finals began to consistently unearth impressive sides.

NAB CUP GRAND FINAL FORM GUIDE TO THE REAL SEASON

2008
NAB Cup premier: St Kilda (finished 4th in real season)
Runner-up: Adelaide (5th)

2009
NAB Cup premier: Geelong (Premier)
Runner-up: Collingwood (4th)

2010
NAB Cup premier: Western Bulldogs (4th)
Runner-up: St Kilda (Runner-up)

2011
NAB Cup premier: Collingwood (Runner-up)
Runner-up: Essendon (8th)

2012
NAB Cup premier: Adelaide (3rd)
Runner-up: West Coast (5th)

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Roo accepts one-week ban

North Melbourne defender Scott McMahon is set to miss the Roos' Round 1 clash against Collingwood. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: Herald Sun

NORTH Melbourne has lost another key player to suspension for its Round 1 clash against Collingwood.

Defender Scott McMahon must sit out the match with veteran Brent Harvey after accepting a one-game penalty for striking.

McMahon, who played 17 games last season, was charged by the match review panel for striking Geelong's Jordan Murdoch in Saturday's NAB Cup match at Simonds Stadium.

Harvey will miss the first six rounds after he was reported in the Kangaroos' elimination final loss to West Coast last year.

Essendon's Heath Hocking is in the clear after a report for a front-on bump on GWS Giants Tomas Bugg was thrown out.

The match review panel decided that the force used by the Bomber was below that to be a reportable offence.

Giants' gun midfielder Toby Greene also has no case to answer for contact to Bomber Brendon Goddard that was also determined to be insufficient force.

 

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Geelong season preview

2013 preview: The Cats can cling to a finals berth with a mix of old heads and young talent, says Fox Footy expert Brad Johnson.

Geelong captain Joel Selwood is a bridge between two generations at Geelong. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

WILL the Cats bottom out or can they stay at the top and contend again in 2013?

Geelong is at the crossroads.

The core of stars that led the team to its incredible era of success is nearing the end. But is the team?

Matthew Scarlett and David Wojcinski retired at the end of last season, joining quartet Cameron Ling, Cam Mooney, Darren Milburn and Brad Ottens the year before - that's 1480 games of experience gone.

Paul Chapman, Josh Hunt, James Podsiadly and Corey Enright will be 32 by the end of this year and Joel Corey 31.

Under the laws of the AFL universe, that means a big crash is coming - just ask the Bulldogs.

But the Cats could defy footy physics.

Exclusive video: Watch Fox Footy expert Brad Johnson answer the hard questions about the Cats in the video player above

If it happens they can thank recruiting genius Stephen Wells, who not only put together one of the great teams of the modern era but has been shrewdly planning for the transition to the next successful Geelong side.

Fans of the Dogs and St Kilda, the other teams at the top of the tree with the Cats from 2007-11 who sacrificed developing youth in the hope of snaring a flag, must cry when they see the likes of Mitch Duncan, Allen Christensen, Steve Motlop, Jordan Murdoch and Daniel Menzel (if he can get his knee right).

Those players have been given exposure at the top level as part of a successful team and head a highly talented youth brigade that can take the baton from the veterans.

Check out our top Geelong SuperCoach picks here

And it doesn't hurt that right in the middle the Cats have two genuine stars in captain Joel Selwood (24) and Tom Hawkins (24) who will dominate the competition for the rest of the decade.

Jimmy Bartel, Steve Johnson and James Kelly are closer to the end of their careers than the start, but still have plenty to give.

And the fact the Cats recruited mature bodies in Jared Rivers and Hamish McIntosh - plus exciting young midfielder Josh Caddy - shows they don't intend to rebuild.

Sydney proved in 2012 it's possible to win a flag without hitting rock bottom. It would be a brave man to bet the Cats couldn't do the same.

Check out our previous team previews here:

Adelaide - Tippett leaves huge hole

Brisbane - Fate rests on Browny's shoulders

Carlton - Mick the messiah

Collingwood - good but not good enough

Essendon - too many distractions?

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Ultimate SuperCoach formguide

Travis Varcoe takes off out of the Geelong defence on Saturday. Picture: Mitch Bear Source: Geelong Advertiser

OUR SuperCoach scouts review every game of the weekend and reveal who's burning and who's stinking it up.

Round 1 is getting nearer which means pre-season form is becoming more and more relevant - and it's only two weeks until the new Nissan SuperCoach season begins!

With matches in all corners of the country it can be hard to keep track of every potential bargain and breakout player, fortunately SuperFooty was keeping a close eye on the action from Casey Fields to Mandurah.

Essendon 119 d Greater Western Sydney 28

IN SHORT, it was a massacre. The Giants had no answers for a relentless Jobe Watson-led Bombers outfit set on adding the polish to an otherwise torrid pre-season off the field. After easing back into action last week, Watson was sublime and worth every bit of his $647,200 price tag. The Brownlow medallist helped himself to 31 disposals (at 93 per cent efficiency) including seven clearances and two goals. He also laid seven tackles to finish with 150 SuperCoach points.

There was also plenty to like about the way Michael Hibberd ($395,100 def) went about his business in the Hird v Sheedy stage-managed grudge match at Manuka Oval. Hibberd continued his excellent pre-season, amassing 24 disposals, a goal and 101 SuperCoach points and could be a unique option.

We liked what Tom Scully ($424,700 mid) brought to the table, finishing with 10 disposals, three clearances and eight tackles. The at-times maligned former top draft pick worked his guts out through the midfield and could be ready to answer his critics in 2013. Toby Greene ($506,300 mid) was again the Giants' standout but comes with a hefty price tag, especially for a second-year player.

There was an interesting battle going in the ruck division - between the two Bombers big men Paddy Ryder ($564,300 ruck/fwd) and Tom Bellchambers ($459,100 ruck). Both topped the 100 SuperCoach point mark, indicating they could both flourish in the same team this season. Not great news for David Hille. 

Did not play: Jonathan Giles, Joe Daniher

Adelaide 109 d Carlton 106

TEX or Mullet, call him what you like. But Carlton had front row tickets to the Taylor Walker show last Friday night. An inspired Walker ($536,000 fwd) led the Crows to victory with five goals including two nine-pointers. He demanded the footy and the Crows' star-studded midfield delivered and if you're thinking of defying the "no key forwards" rule in SuperCoach, he could be your man.

David Mackay ($405,000 mid) caught the eye with 16 disposals at 93 per cent efficiency. Mackay, who had seven inside-50s and four goal assists, looks an ideal selection for those in deep SuperCoach Draft leagues.

Scott Thompson ($591,000 mid) was everywhere and must be considered, while in blue and white Dennis Armfield ($343,400 mid/fwd) was one of the surprise packets of the weekend. The right-footer provided plenty of spark finishing with 13 disposals, three clearances and eight tackles. He also kicked two goals at opportune times during the hotly-contested match at West Lakes. Oh, and he ran down two-time Grand Final sprint champion Patrick Dangerfield twice. Yes, you read it right. Twice!

Dangerfield had an unusually quiet game but don't read too much into his 16 touches after he was subbed out at three-quarter time. Of perhaps more concern was Rory Sloane ($567,700 mid) collecting just 11 disposals from more than 90 per cent game time.

But you can confidently put Brad Crouch ($115,900 mid) on your midfield bench after another impressive display, finding the ball 15 times at 80 per cent efficiency.

Meanwhile, gone are the days of Brock McLean ($568,600 mid) living in the shadows of Marc Murphy, Andrew Carrazzo and Co. A blue collar gun, McLean had the ball on a string in the last quarter and almost single-handedly dragged the Blues over the line. He finished with 109 SuperCoach points for the night.

Did not play: Bryce Gibbs, Chris Judd, Sam Kerridge

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Richmond 85 d Hawthorn 84

USUAL suspects Sam Mitchell (111 SuperCoach points), Brett Deledio (123), Trent Cotchin (110 and Jarryd Roughead (five goals) put in strong tune-ups for the season proper at Launceston. But it was the form of young Hawks midfielder Bradley Hill ($152,000 mid) which caught our eye. Hill, the younger brother of Fremantle's Stephen, was busy in the clinches amassing 22 disposals including four inside-50s. After the loss of Matthew Suckling ($442,400 def) to a knee injury, there could well be a spot for the young bolter off half-back.

Bachar Houli ($444,800 def) looks primed for a big season off half-back using his dash to pick up 24 disposals, nine marks and a goal, while developing backman Brandon Ellis ($300,100 def) is another worth the investment after a solid pre-season and NAB Cup campaign. Ellis clunked 10 marks at the weekend.

Did not play: Lance Franklin, Brad Sewell, Cyril Rioli, Brian Lake, Chris Knights, Nick Vlastuin

St Kilda 91 d Melbourne 66

MR Consistent Nick Dal Santo ($544,800 mid) put on the finishing touches to his 2013 preparations at Casey Fields. Dal Santo, who averaged a tick over 100 last year, had 19 polished disposals, four tackles, a goal and 102 SuperCoach points against the Dees.

His midfield mate Leigh Montagna ($530,700 mid) is a touch cheaper and looks an excellent option as an under-priced premium. He hasn't missed a beat this pre-season, picking up 21 disposals and 116 SuperCoach points on Saturday.

Forward rookie option Tom Lee ($115,900 fwd) provided a strong marking option inside the arc but his kicking let him down. The West Australian mature-aged recruit had four shots on goal for four behinds. With limited bench options up forward, he could be worth the investment at a rock bottom price.

Another young Saint to keep in mind is Jack Newnes ($299,500 mid), who is set to be given more opportunities in the midfield in his second season. He's an awkward price but on Saturday's evidence - 17 disposals and 97 SuperCoach points - he could be worth the punt.

James Magner ($317,200 mid) was the pick of the Demons' midfielders with 19 disposals – nine contested – seven tackles and six marks. Unfortunately he doesn't offer the same value as last season.

It wasn't a great day if you have plenty of Demons in your SuperCoach squad - consider these numbers: Jack Watts 11 disposals, Jack Grimes 10, Cam Pedersen 11, Shannon Byrnes eight.

More encouraging was the performance of mature-age defender Dean Terlich ($109,500 def) who collected the footy 16 times and looks a safe pick.

And where is Jack Viney ($109,500 mid)? The boom father-son recruit has been left out of Melbourne's squads the past two weeks after making his debut in Round 1 of the NAB Cup.

Did not play: Jack Viney

Leigh Montagna battles with Matt Jones during the Melbourne vs St Kilda NAB Cup match at Casey Fields. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

Geelong 96 d North Melbourne 84

THE flukey Steve Johnson ($516,700 mid/fwd) has been replaced by a warrior with a ferocious attack on the contest. And the Kangaroos felt the wrath of Johnson's well documented move into the midfield. The triple-premiership Cat had five clearances, 20 disposals – nine contested – and led all-comers in the tackling department with nine to score a tidy 115 SuperCoach points. Watch out in 2013.

Paul Chapman ($535,600 fwd/mid) starred in the dogged victory with three last-quarter goals to rack up 128 SuperCoach points while young guns Jordan Murdoch, George Horlin-Smith and Steven Motlop will all feature prominently at the Cattery in 2013.

Travis Varcoe ($268,900 mid/fwd) will be a popular pick this season and he will play every week, but don't expect huge scores every week. He showed flashes of brilliance on Saturday but added just nine disposals to the stats sheet.

The Kangaroos ruck battle is looming as one of the big SuperCoach stories of the pre-season. Ex-Swan Daniel Currie ($109,500 ruc) was given the chance to ruck solo (against an admittedly under-strength Geelong ruck division) and grabbed it with both hands, knocking down 38 hitouts for 109 SuperCoach points. Not great news for Todd Goldstein ($497,900 ruck), who was running around in the VFL, but great for SuperCoach.

Currie shapes as the steal of the season. He should be on your bench, but could you go one step further and start him on the field?

Andrew Swallow ($585,100 mid) brushed off an ankle injury to make his presence felt with 19 disposals including seven clearances. The skipper laid six tackles, equal with Keiran Harper ($275,500 fwd) and one ahead of walking highlights reel Majak Daw ($115,900 ruck).

The Roos' mid-priced onball brigade delivered mid-tier performances: Jack Ziebell 14 disposals, Ben Cunnington 14, Ryan Bastinac 14 and Shaun Atley 11.

Did not play: Todd Goldstein

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Fremantle 146 d Western Bulldogs 37

IF Nat Fyfe ($498,800 mid) can keep his left shoulder intact, watch out! The classy midfielder was dominant in the Dockers' demolition of the Bulldogs with 30 disposals (17 contested), eight clearances and 130 SuperCoach points. He threw a scare through the Freo camp and the SuperCoach world when he went off late in the third quarter clutching his shoulder, but he played out the final term with no obvious discomfort. At that price, you have to take the risk.

Paul Duffield ($496,700 def) matched Fyfe with 130 SuperCoach points of his own, having it all his own way in defence while Matthew Pavlich ($593,900 fwd) kicked three goals in his first game of the pre-season and should be cherry ripe for Round 1.

The Dogs left half their team in Melbourne but there was a shining light in former Eagle Koby Stevens ($176,600 mid) who finished with 23 disposals including 12 contested possessions. Add seven clearances and four inside-50s for 105 SuperCoach points - and Brendan McCartney promising more midfield time post-match - and he shapes as an excellent cheap option.

Did not play: Ryan Griffen, Matthew Boyd, Will Minson, Robert Murphy.

Brisbane 88 d Collingwood 54

IT'S hard not to be seduced by the in-form Lions. Patrick Karnezis ($262,200 fwd) is an exciting talent who appears to be relishing his move further up the ground. Brent Moloney ($363,400 mid) has a new hunger after being given a second chance by Michael Voss.

Aaron Cornelius ($256,200 fwd) remains a risk despite his hot streak kicking eight goals in two weeks. The forward is far from a certainty to keep his spot in the team banished to the NEAFL regularly last year during the home-and-away season.

Daniel Rich ($485,800 mid) is ticking all the boxes for a breakout season  and had 25 disposals, a goal and 131 SuperCoach points on Saturday night. And Tom Rockliff ($520,500 fwd/mid) seems ready to bounce back after a disappointing finish to 2012 as a quality midfielder although his disposal let him down this week, scoring 100 SuperCoach points from 27 touches.

Steele Sidebottom ($568,400 mid, 27 disposals) and Dayne Beams ($657,600, 23 disposals) were the Pies' best, with Beams' effort including seven clearances and four inside-50s.

Youngsters Ben Kennedy, Paul Seedsman and Kyle Martin played well and should get their chances in 2013. Seedsman ($239,300 mid) looks the front-runner for a regular spot in the Magpies' best 22, just ahead of Kennedy ($109,500 fwd/mid), who finished with 19 possessions and a goal against the Lions.

Brent Macaffer ($128,000 fwd) played most of the game in the forward pocket and managed 10 disposals.

A big blow for SuperCoaches was the late withdrawal of Lions ruckman Matthew Leuenberger ($301,100 ruck). Berger is in plenty of teams but has so far has just one quarter of match practice this pre-season, which must put a big question mark over him early in the season.

Did not play: Dane Swan, Scott Pendlebury, Dale Thomas, Travis Cloke, Matthew Leuenberger

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

Sydney 80 d Gold Coast 44

JARRAD McVeigh ($526,000 mid) probably isn't the first midfielder on your SuperCoach radar but based on this pre-season, he should be. The co-captain ran riot against the Suns, picking 35 disposals, eight clearances and 146 SuperCoach points. Had he kicked straight (four behinds) it could have been the performance of the pre-season. Josh Kennedy ($643,000 mid) also had a field day with 28 touches, 12 clearances and 124 SuperCoach points.

Veterans Adam Goodes ($479,900 fwd) and Shane Mumford ($486,900 ruck) were eased back in their first pre-season hitouts and got through unscathed. Luke Parker ($379,500 mid) was solid.

Jaeger O'Meara ($115,900 mid) put in the performance we've all been waiting for collecting 24 disposals (15 contested) and seven clearances. The boy wonder had eight inside-50s and four tackles. The only let-down was his poor disposal efficiency (41 per cent) and five clangers.

Greg Broughton ($441,900 def/fwd) can't be ruled out given his point-scoring ability and dual position status. The former Docker had 19 possessions a hand in one of the Suns' six goals.

If you're considering Zac Smith ($375,900 ruck) as a cheap ruck option, best to look away now. He had two disposals for the night - although to be fair he was subbed out at halftime.

Did not play: Gary Ablett

Port Adelaide 92 d West Coast 86

BRAD Ebert ($535,300 mid) was the pick of the Port midfielders with 19 disposals and 11 marks. Ebert also had six inside-50s and laid five tackles. New skipper Travis Boak ($481,500 mid) led by example with 12 contested (24 overall) possessions, also adding eight inside-50s and five clearances to his tally.

Ollie Wines ($169,500 mid) attacked every contest as if it was his last finishing with 16 possessions (11 contested) and four tackles. Pre-season ball magnet Kane Mitchell ($126,200 mid) had just three disposals after being given a run-with role on Shannon Hurn. Hopefully we don't see much more of that during the home-and-away season.

Some of the other Port cheapies we sang the praises of last week were also quiet, with Sam Colquhoun ($109,500 def/mid) collecting nine disposals, Lewis Stevenson ($115,900 def) 10 and Jake Neade ($115,9009 fwd) eight.

Despite the unexpected loss, the Eagles can take solace from the fact Josh Kennedy ($299,600 fwd) is back to his devastating best. The key forward, who missed the bulk of last year with foot problems, booted 5.3 in a dominant performance inside the arc.

Follow Gilbert Gardiner on Twitter @gilbertgardiner

Follow Al Paton on Twitter @al_superfooty

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NAB Cup final round schedule

BRISBANE have been forced to travel to Melbourne for the NAB Cup grand final, but where are the other teams playing?

Despite finishing on top of the NAB Cup ladder, the Lions will take on the Blues at Etihad Stadium next Friday night.

Join SuperFooty for live coverage of that match from 7.30pm AEDT.

Next weekend's practice matches kick off with the Magpies making a rare trip down the highway to Simmonds Stadium to play the Cats. Here's the full list of AFL practice matches.

All AFL members will get in free to see their side play.

Friday March 15
Geelong v Collingwood at Simonds Stadium, 4pm

Saturday March 16
Gold Coast v Melbourne at Southport, 11.30am
Port Adelaide v Sydney Swans at AAMI Stadium, 1pm

North Melbourne v Hawthorn at Craigieburn, 2pm
Richmond v Western Bulldogs at Visy Park, 2pm
GWS v St Kilda at Blacktown International Sportspark, 2pm

SuperFooty will have match reports from all matches across Friday and Saturday.

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Porplyzia out of hospital

Adelaide forward Jason Porplyzia is in line for Round 1 after going into hospital with stomach ulcers. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

CROWS specialist forward Jason Porplyzia is out of hospital today after suffering severe stomach pains - caused by an ulcer - after the NAB Cup win against Carlton on Friday.

Porplyzia was mystified by the pain after recalling no hit to his torso during Adelaide's three-point win against the Blues.

Tests later revealed a stomach ulcer.

He is still in contention for Adelaide's season-opener against Essendon at AAMI Park on Friday week.

"Jason will have a light week and be back into full training in the week leading up to the Essendon game,'' Adelaide football operations chief Phil Harper said today. "He's still in line for Round 1.''

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