SA’s greatest football team revealed

Malcolm Blight has made it into SA's greatest football team. Source: News Limited

THIS is South Australia's greatest-ever football team, as compiled by Advertiser chief football writer Michelangelo Rucci.

Rucci has spent hours combing through nearly 2000 SA footy players to come up with a group of 25 superstars (a team of 22 plus three emergencies).

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Scroll down below, run your eyes over every player and every position, and tell us if you agree.

Under each position, vote on players that you believe should have made the 25.

Next week we will release the fans' greatest SA team as picked by you.

Rucci's greatest SA team. Source: The Advertiser

BACKS

GAVIN WANGANEEN

Played 327 games (300 in AFL with Essendon (127 games) and Port Adelaide (173); 27 in SANFL with Port Adelaide) from 1990-2006. Won Brownlow Medal in 1993, played in Essendon (1993) and Port Adelaide (2004) premiership teams. All-Australian fives times.

Extraordinary reader of the game — and playmaker who was at the forefront of making defenders develop an attacking side to their game.

Wanganeen celebrates a last quarter goal in the 2004 AFL Grand Final. Source: News Corp Australia

I AN McKAY

Played 164 games (all with North Adelaide) from 1946-55. Won Magarey Medal in 1950 and played in two SANFL premiership sides (1949 and 1952).

Started as a centre half-back — and moved to full back where he became the first Magarey Medal winner in this position (1950). Repeatedly proved himself as a champion full back against the game's best forwards during 14 State games.

McKay is carried off the field by teammates Geoff Fuller and John Tidswell after North Adelaide's SANFL Grand Final in 1952. Source: News Limited

RICK DAVIES

Played 370 games (317 in the SANFL with Sturt, 33 with South Adelaide and 20 in the VFL with Hawthorn). Kicked then record 151 goals in 1983. Played in two premiership sides (1974 and 1976 with Sturt).

In memory of Davies' solo efforts in the 1976 SANFL grand final — when he defied the red-hot Port Adelaide with 15 marks, many across half-back — the "Jumbo Prince" can wait for the call to go into ruck from a back pocket.

Sturt champion Rick Davies takes a strong mark at Football Park. Source: News Limited

HALF-BACKS

GEOF MOTLEY

Played 258 games (all with Port Adelaide). Won 1964 Magarey Medal. Played in record nine premierships teams on Adelaide Oval — and captain-coached Port Adelaide to the record sixth-in-a-row flag in 1959.

Tough, uncompromising, totally devoted to team football — and fair. Very much the heartbeat of one of SA's greatest teams in the game's golden era of the 1950s and '60s.

Geof Motley puts one on the boot. Source: News Limited

LEN FITZGERALD

Played 221 games (96 in the VFL with Collingwood and 125 with Sturt). Won 1952, 1954 and 1959 Magarey Medal. All-Australian in 1953.

Made his debut with Collingwood at just 15 — and proved himself strong and capable in the game's most-demanding positions while representing both Victoria and SA.

Len Fitzgerald leads Sturt onto the ground wearing the football guernsey he designed with wife Beryl. Source: News Limited

DAN MORIARTY

Played 97 games (all with South Adelaide). Won 1919, 1920 and 1921 Magarey Medals.

Adventurous defender who defied taller forwards with his immaculate reading of the play. Would have played more league games had the sport not been disrupted by World War I.

A portrait of Dan Moriarty. Source: News Limited

Which defenders should make the revised greatest footy team in SA history (pick six)?

MIDFIELDERS

JOHN CAHILL

Played 264 games (all with Port Adelaide). Member of four premiership teams (1959, 1962, 1963 and 1965).

Simply brilliant — and while the argument is made that no player can carry a team to a flag, there is the thought that Port Adelaide would have won the 1964 SANFL grand final had Cahill not been injured.

Magpies great John Cahill talks footy tactics. Source: News Limited

RUSSELL EBERT

Played 416 games (391 in the SANFL with Port Adelaide and 25 in the VFL with North Melbourne). Won record four Magarey Medals (1971, 1974, 1976 and 1980). Member of three premiership sides (1977, 1980 and 1981).

Immaculate skills and strength as a centreman who dominated SA football's through its greatest era in the 1960s and 1970s.

Russell Ebert takes a solid mark on the run during a training session. Source: Supplied

LINDSAY HEAD

Played 327 games (all with West Torrens). Won 1955, 1958 and 1963 Magarey Medals. All-Australian in 1956. Represented SA 37 times.

First player to reach 300-game milestone in SANFL football. Mesmerised fans — and opponents — in the 1950s with his midfield work.

Three-time Magarey Medallist Lindsay Head on the run for West Torrens. Source: News Limited

M ALCOLM BLIGHT

Played 342 games (164 in SANFL with Woodville and 178 in VFL with North Melbourne). Won Magarey Medal in 1972 and Brownlow Medal in 1978. Won Coleman Medal as VFL leading goalkicker in 1982. Member of North Melbourne's 1977 and 1979 premiership teams.

Brilliant forward who never left a question unanswered with his willingness to try tricky or demanding plays.

Woodville captain and coach Malcolm Blight kicks his 100th goal for the season. Source: Supplied

JOHN PLATTEN

Played 371 games (113 in the SANFL with Central District and 258 in the VFL-AFL with Hawthorn). Won Magarey Medal in 1984 and Brownlow Medal in 1987. All-Australian in 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989 and 1991. Member of four premiership teams with Hawthorn (1986, 1988, 1989 and 1991).

In an era in which SA produced the game's best rovers, "The Rat" stood out for his ability to hunt the ball and use it.

Champion rover John Platten goes in hard for the ball during a SA vs. WA match in 1985. Source: Supplied

Which midfielders should make the revised greatest footy team in SA history (pick five)?

FORWARDS

PAUL BAGSHAW

Played 360 games (all with Sturt). Member of seven premiership teams (1966, 67, 68, 69, 70, 74 and 76). Won five best-and-fairest titles in Sturt's greatest era.

Measure of his skill is best seen in a state game on a mud heap in Tasmania — he controlled the ball better than anyone. Arguably the greatest Sturt player of the Jack Oatey era.

Sturt great Paul Bagshaw takes a break in the changerooms after the game. Source: News Limited

BARRIE ROBRAN

Played 210 games (all with North Adelaide). Won 1968, 1970 and 1973 Magarey Medal. Member of two premiership sides (1971 and 72).

Only South Australian to have legend status in the Australian Football Hall of Fame. Nothing more needs to be said. Career ruined by knee injury in state game on SCG.

Roosters champion Barrie Robran takes a corker during a game between Glenelg and North Adelaide at Adelaide Oval in 1973. Picture: Ray Titus. Source: Supplied

MARK RICCIUTO

Played 333 games (312 in the AFL with Adelaide and 21 in the SANFL with West Adelaide). Won Brownlow Medal in 2003. Member of Adelaide's 1998 premiership side. All-Australian in 1994, 1997, 1998 and 2000.

Modern-day bull in any contest for the ball — and almost impossible to contain either as a midfielder or forward. Natural leader.

Crows captain Mark Ricciuto celebrates goal in his 300th match against North Melbourne at AAMI Stadium in 2006. Source: News Limited

NEIL KERLEY

Played 260 games (149 with West Adelaide, 56 with South Adelaide and 55 with Glenelg). Member of two premiership sides (West Adelaide in 1961 and South Adelaide in 1964, both as captain-coach). All-Australian in 1961.

His ability to win contests against taller ruckmen — particularly in the 1961 grand final — is just the start of the legend of one of SA's toughest players.

Neil Kerley gets way above the pack in 1967. Source: News Limited

KEN FARMER

Played 224 games (all with North Adelaide). SANFL leading goalkicker in every season from 1930 to 1940. Kicked 100 goals or more for 11 consecutive seasons.

SA's greatest goalkicker with a career tally of 1417. No more needs to be said.

SA's greatest goalkicker, North Adelaide's Ken Farmer, gives the leather a hiding. Source: News Limited

BOB QUINN

Played 186 games (all with Port Adelaide). Won two Magarey Medals (1938 and 1945) in career interrupted by war service. Member of three premiership sides (1936, '37 and 39).

Quick and loaded with a big engine that carried him through the most demanding games — and courageous, as emphasised by his war record that includes a Military Medal.

Port Adelaide champion Bob Quinn is chaired from ground after his last game in 1947 against West Adelaide. Source: News Limited

Which forwards should make the revised greatest footy team in SA history (pick six)?

RUCK

TOM LEAHY

Played 262 games (151 with West Adelaide and 111 with North Adelaide). Won 1913 Magarey Medal and was runner-up in 1908, 1909 and 1911. Member of North Adelaide's 1920 premiership side.

Another player before his time as he used bodywork in ruck contests and his athleticism in field play.

Legendary ruckman Tom Leahy, who played for West and North, marks the ball. Source: Supplied

Which ruckmen should make the revised greatest footy team in SA history (pick two)?

INTERCHANGE

STEPHEN KERNAHAN

Played 387 games (136 in SANFL with Glenelg and 251 in the VFL-AFL with Carlton). Member of Glenelg premiership side in 1986 and Carlton in 1987 and 1995. All-Australian in 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1992 and 1994.

Those 10 goals against Victoria in the first State-of-Origin game played under lights at Football Park in 1984 were the start of a grand career.

Glenelg and Carlton great Stephen Kernahan takes a strong mark for the Blues. Source: News Limited

WALTER SCOTT

Played 174 games (all with Norwood). Won Magarey Medal in 1921, 1924 and 1930. Member of Norwood premiership sides in 1922, 1923, 1925 and 1930. Represented SA 38 times.

Master defender who made his mark on the SANFL as a Magarey Medallist in just his second season.

Norwood's Walter Scott marks for SA against Victoria at the MCG. Source: News Corp Australia

GRAHAM CORNES

Played 364 games (312 in the SANFL with Glenelg and 47 with South Adelaide and five VFL games with North Melbourne). Member of Glenelg premiership side in 1973. All-Australian in 1979 and 1980. Tassie Medallist in 1979.

Capable of playing so many roles in a team, either side of centre — and with brilliance and reliability.

High-flying Glenelg great Graham Cornes soars over Keith Chessell at Unley Oval in 1973. Source: Supplied

TOM MacKENZIE

Played an estimated 200 games (with West Torrens and North Adelaide) from 1901-13. Won three Magarey Medals (1902, 05 and 06) and played in one premiership side (1905 with North Adelaide).

First player to claim three Magarey Medals. A perfectly balanced centreman who was "before his time" — and sadly forgotten in the current time of naming almost everything at Adelaide Oval.

EMERGENCIES

P ETER CAREY

Played 448 games (all with Glenelg). Member of three Glenelg premiership teams, 1973, 1985 and 1986. All-Australian in 1979 and 1980.

One of the most assertive and enduring ruckmen of his era.

Carey is carried from the field by John Seebohm and Chris McDermott after breaking the Australian senior games record in 1988. Source: News Limited

BOB HANK

Played 224 games (all with West Torrens). Won Magarey Medals in 1946 and 1947. All-Australian in 1953. Played in two premiership sides (1945 and 1953).

Dominated SA football after World War II with his strong ball-getting traits and ability to influence the scoreboard.

Hank training at Thebarton Oval in 1958. Source: Supplied

ANDREW McLEOD

Played (340 in the AFL with Adelaide and 23 in the SANFL with Port Adelaide). Member of Adelaide's 1997 and 1998 premiership double. Won Norm Smith Medal as best-afield in those grand finals. All-Australian in 1998, 2000, 2001, 2006 and 2007.

One of the smoothest and most-gifted players who maintained high standards even when playing under duress with a degenerating knee.

Classic McLeod on the run at AAMI Stadium. Source: News Limited

COACH

FOS WILLIAMS

Coached Port Adelaide in 447 games with 333-112-2 win-loss-draw record with nine premierships. Also coached South Adelaide with 3-15 count and West Adelaide with 43-68-1 record. Mentored SA team that beat VFL on the MCG in 1963.

Williams was the first "super coach" in SA football history — and the most capable in his era with state teams once he gained control of selection.

Williams talks to his boys in 1980. Source: News Limited

Who should coach the revised greatest footy team in SA history?

UMPIRE

MURRAY DUCKER

Field umpire in 198 games. Officiated in six grand finals (1968, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974).

His work in the frenetic 1973 grand final between Glenelg and North Adelaide at Adelaide Oval was exceptional.

Ducker honing his bounce skills in 1970. Source: News Limited

Who should umpire the greatest team in SA footy history?

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Is this SA’s greatest football team ... EVER?

South Australian legend Neil Kerley training for a state game. Source: News Limited

SA football began in the 1860s, was organised as a league in 1877 and had produced a team of national champions at the Australian carnival in 1911.

And after 150 years of South Australia building a significant foundation stone to "Australia's Game" finding the ultimate state team is the ultimate challenge.

There are almost 2000 players to consider from a rich stable of SA footballers; at least 100 who would walk into their clubs' Teams of the Century and almost 50 who have earned induction to the Australian Football Hall of Fame.

MORE: SEE SA'S GREATEST FOOTY TEAM HERE NOW AND VOTE

Now narrow it to 25 — and give them a coach and an umpire to send on tour.

There are stand-out selections. Triple Magarey Medallist Barrie Robran is SA's only "Legend" in the Australian Football Hall of Fame. He could fit three roles — defender, midfielder or forward.

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Handing him the toughest task in football, playing centre half-forward, suits Robran perfectly.

Four-time Magarey Medallist Russell Ebert surely takes centre.

Brownlow-Magarey Medallist Malcolm Blight stands in the ruck battery working with Magarey Medallist Tom Leahy, who was the SA game's first great ruckman — a player well before his time and deserving to be remembered in an all-time team.

Tell us, what do you think? Comment and have your say below

Triple Magarey Medallist Len Fitzgerald stands out at centre half-back — as does Ken Farmer at full forward whose record as the greatest goalkicker in SA football history makes him too difficult to dislodge in the goalsquare. But there will be arguments, particularly when modern-day players such as forwards Scott Hodges and Tim Evans and defenders Greg Phillips and Michael Taylor have outstanding records that must be considered.

Every position in the all-time team has three perfect candidates. But as every coach knows, at selection there are just 25 spots to fill — 18 on the field, four on the bench and three emergencies.

MORE: SEE SA'S GREATEST FOOTY TEAM HERE NOW AND VOTE

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Tredrea: Lazy Crows are a selfish, three-man team

Adelaide Crows will have to wait a week to get redemption for the three-point defeat to Melbourne on the weekend, but have their work cut out for them when they host Collingwood in round 9.

ADELAIDE has seven days to plug the gaping holes in its ailing ship or another season will sink like the Titanic.

A week is a long time in football and history shows things can turn quickly.

But this will only happen if everyone at the club commits to a 100 per cent team-first focus.

With the easier side of the Crows' draw finished — a month where it played St Kilda, GWS, the Bulldogs and Melbourne and should have won all four — Brenton Sanderson's side is now at the crossroads.

Do you agree with Warren Tredrea's assessment of the Crows?

Its remaining fixtures include two matches against Collingwood, including next Thursday night's blockbuster at Adelaide Oval, two meetings with North Melbourne and clashes against Carlton, Essendon, Hawthorn, Fremantle, West Coast and Port Adelaide.

Disappointed Adelaide Crows leave the ground after the three-point loss to Melbourne. Picture: Sarah Reed.

So it is time for Sanderson and his men to make a statement, starting with the Magpies.

Lose that game and fall to 3-5 and the Crows can virtually kiss their finals hopes goodbye.

Following the inexcusable implosion against Melbourne, Sanderson claimed there are three key areas letting Adelaide down.

POOR starts: The Crows have won only two first quarters. Good teams don't let you back into games so this must be fixed.

THE tragic loss of his right-hand man Dean Bailey: Make no mistake, Bailey's loss is huge. His lateral and measured thinking cannot be replaced.

BAD kicking: I wrote in this column last month that Adelaide can't handle the heat when the pressure cooker is turned up and it has done nothing to make me change my mind. This burnt the Crows on the weekend when the Demons booted seven unanswered goals while Adelaide's kicking efficiency was at a disgraceful 47 per cent — 12 per cent below the AFL average.

Frustrated Crows coach Brenton Sanderson has a week to turn the season around. Picture: Sarah Reed.

The other big issues facing the Crows are their over-reliance on three key players.

If midfielders Patrick Dangerfield and Rory Sloane and ruckman Sam Jacobs don't fire, neither does Adelaide.

It needs more contributors more often.

The return of Taylor Walker from a long-time knee injury will help but he won't be a quick fix. The gun forward will take time to rediscover his brilliant best.

The other issue is the Crows' lack of a defensive game plan.

They have conceded 443 points (63 per game) from turnovers in 2014. This is 48 points more than any other side.

Two years ago Sanderson's side was the contested ball pin-up team of the competition. Not any more.

While Adelaide has got worse, rivals have improved. The Crows were taught a lesson by previous wooden spoon favourite Melbourne.

The Demons' key stats are far from flattering. They rank 15th in disposals, 18th in clearances and 18th for goals scored.

But they damningly beat Adelaide 377-340 in possessions, 40-37 in clearances and outscored it by three points.

The Crows didn't respect Melbourne enough and paid the ultimate penalty.

Man for man the Dees aren't anywhere near as good as Adelaide but they arrived at The Oval with a plan to deny the Crows space and they carried it out to perfection.

Adelaide's team defence was appalling. Its defensive press has more holes in it than a pair of old running shoes.

Sanderson remarked "they don't work for each other as a team", adding "they go into a self-preservation mode" when it's time to leave your man to cover for a teammate.

They also seem to be lacking the absolute desperation required to pressure the opposition to turn the ball over, which used to be their bread and butter.

To fix the problem Sanderson must go back to playing six v six all over the ground.

He needs to forget about playing with a free player as a defensive quarterback.

It is simply not working. It is time to play on and beat your man.

Adelaide's players must be rebooted to play contested, accountable one-on-one football. It is time to throw everything else out the window and get the knees dirty.

This will help stop the run of goals the Crows have made a habit of conceding.

It all starts on the training track. Team-first must be the motto.

Training must turn ultra-competitive and Sanderson can't be afraid of letting blood be spilt.

The best forwards must be pitted aga inst the best defenders. The same goes for the midfield.

Throw in drill variations like forwards operating with extra defenders and have the mids practice kicking the ball to them inside 50.

Even tag key midfielders. Make them outwork their human shadows and practice blocking at stoppages. Every bit helps in developing players.

It's here you will see the competitive animals go to work and highlight who's up for the fight.

Drills designed to kill opposition scoring must be replicated and practised over and over again, along with picking the right options under pressure.

Match simulation drills like this breed confidence, something which Adelaide is currently bereft of.

Lazy, selfish, undisciplined and lacking endeavour are words you don't want associated with your team. But right now that's how Adelaide is perceived.

Warren Tredrea is Port Adelaide's 2004 premiership captain and its greatest goalkicker. He is a Channel 9 News sports presenter and Triple M football commentator.

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Healy: Gut says Swans can win

Former Carlton Premiership winner Mark Maclure has criticised the AFL's Match Review Panel for not handling the Jack Viney bump case and instead referring it to the tribunal.

Lance Franklin and Adam Goodes train at the SCG on Wednesday night. The Swans will wheel out their big guns to tackle Hawthorn. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: News Corp Australia

FOX Footy expert Gerard Healy believes Lance Franklin can upset his old club when the Sydney Swans meet Hawthorn in Friday night's blockbuster at ANZ Stadium.

Healy, answering questions from fans on Thursday, said he believed the Swans' midfield was hitting form, and the home side was a strong chance to continue its winning way if it could contain the Hawks' run from defence.

ROBBO: VINEY DECISION HARD TO SWALLOW

"It's hard to go against the Hawks but you've got to go on gut feel sometimes, and I'm going for the Swans," Healy said.

"They've got to shut down the Hawks' half backs and I think their midfield is going to dominate."

CLARKO DOUBTS SWANS' FORWARD CHEMISTRY

Healy expects Kurt Tippett to be used close to goal — but believes the Swans would be best served if the former Crow could become the Swans' no.1 ruckman — while the likes of Franklin and Adam Goodes will roam from the midfield inside 50.

FRANKLIN FIT TO FACE OLD BUDDIES

Six clubs will enjoy a bye this weekend, something Healy has mixed views on.

The 1988 Brownlow medallist said he thought byes interrupted the season but could understand players enjoying a break.

"As a player I probably would have enjoyed a weekend off but I don't know if you need two — that's probably taking it to the extreme," he said.

"I know the players run long and hard but midfielders in the 1980s were running 20-plus kilometres back then.

SUPERCOACH: HOW TO BEAT THE BYE

"I think the bye is valuable for the mental relief as much as anything.

"But I didn't like having weeks off from a physical perspective because I thought the body got out of sync to some degree."

RECAP GERARD'S CHAT IN THE WINDOW BELOW:

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AFL right to come down on Viney: Wingard

Melbourne's Jack Viney has been handed a two-match ban by the tribunal after being found guilty of a bump on Tom Lynch, while Richmond's Brett Deledio walked away from a striking charge with just a reprimand.

AFL players have reacted with outrage to the two-match ban handed to Melbourne midfielder Jack Viney.

Herald Sun reporter Jon Anderson talks to Fox Sports about the suspension of Melbourne Demons' Jack Viney, which he views as a landmark decision.

Chad Wingard supports the AFL's decision to suspend Jack Viney for his bump on Tom Lynch. Source: Getty Images

PORT Adelaide best and fairest Chad Wingard has backed the AFL in its firm stance on the bump as widespread debate rages over the suspension of Melbourne's Jack Viney for his bump on Adelaide's Tom Lynch.

Viney received a two-week ban after Lynch ended up with a broken jaw and the subsequent suspension reaffirmed the AFL's view that a player's head is sacrosanct and cannot be hit.

MORE: 'BUMP' BAN SLAMMED BY PLAYERS

Former greats have condemned the decision, calling it a football accident, but Wingard said it was made in the interest of the players.

What do you think of the AFL Tribunal's decision to ban Jack Viney?

"There's a couple of ways you can approach it but the AFL, they're really just trying to look after every layer and their welfare," Wingard said ahead of training at Adelaide Oval. "If they think they need to knuckle down on a certain issue, and the bump is obviously an issue, that's what they're going to do to look after everyone's welfare."

Viney leaves the AFL Tribunal. Picture: Michael Klein. Source: News Corp Australia

Wingard disagreed with the notion that the bump was dead.

MORE: PLAYERS' BOSS SAYS TRIBUNAL WRONG

He predicted it would still be an important part of football — it just came with the caveat of avoiding your opponent's head.

"It's more the way you go about it," Wingard said.

"As long as the ball is the thing you're concentrating on I think the bump is going to be there, no matter what.

MARK ROBINSON: THE GAME IS THE FOOL

"It's to help the players. Obviously we don't want them to change the game too much; we love the game the way it is and so do the fans.

"But it's not like they're saying you can't bump. In the end, we're still going to attack the ball and it's still going to be a ruthless game.
"If you hit someone's head you can't do it. It's pretty black and white, I think.

"The players just want some consistency.''

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No common sense in kangaroo court

Herald Sun reporter Jon Anderson talks to Fox Sports about the suspension of Melbourne Demons' Jack Viney, which he views as a landmark decision.

The Jack Viney case is the latest example of the AFL Tribunal not doing what it's meant to do. Source: News Corp Australia

THE AFL tribunal system, introduced 10 seasons ago to reduce the amount of guesswork and subjectivity, should be replaced immediately.

It is a system that sadly leaves no room for common sense, something that would have seen Jack Viney walk free on Tuesday night.

ROBBO: THE GAME IS THE FOOL

RIGHT CALL: WINGARD BACKS BUMP DECISION

#VINEY: TWITTER MELTDOWN AFTER DECISION

'TRAGIC': VOSS CALLS ON DEES TO APPEAL

TRIBUNAL: VINEY GUILTY, HANDED TWO-MATCH BAN

Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley says he was surprised to see Melbourne's Jack Viney suspended for his bump on Tom Lynch, insisting it was a mere accident.

And while the Viney case will hopefully become a catalyst for change, reality shows the system has broken down all too often in recent years.

Rather than eliminating guesswork it seems to increase it as we debate whether an action is intentional or reckless, as was the case when Brett Deledio had an elbow to the head of Matthew Stokes downgraded from intentional to reckless.

So "hey mate, cop this" but please don't get too upset because my intent wasn't to raise my elbow and make contact with your head, more just a regrettable reckless moment in my life. Please.

The current system was introduced by the then AFL Football Operations manager Adrian Anderson in 2005.

AFL correspondent Julian de Stoop brings us the latest reactions to Jack Viney's surprise suspension, with both past and present players venting their confusion about the ruling.

Used in the NRL, a table of offences with set penalties are offered to a player, allowing them to accept sanction without having to go before the tribunal.

Early on there was a degree of patience and some acceptance but it has sadly become yet another kangaroo court.

In Viney's case, he didn't even get to hear from the Match Review Panel and was sent straight to the tribunal for reasons that escaped most sane persons.

The tribunal members in Wayne Schimmelbusch, Wayne Henwood and Emmett Dunne decided that Viney had bumped Tom Lynch and once they went down that path the Melbourne on-baller was stuffed.

Melbourne's Jack Viney has been handed a two-match ban by the tribunal after being found guilty of a bump on Tom Lynch, while Richmond's Brett Deledio walked away from a striking charge with just a reprimand.

They had the option to deem it an unavoidable collision but chose not to and from there he was penalised accordingly. And wrongly, and unfairly, and against the spirit of the game.

So what would be different for Schimmelbusch, Henwood and Dunne if we went back to the old system? Well, one, they would have some wiggle room which isn't available at present, and two, they could judge the act by using their common sense.

For those who have forgotten, common sense is a collection of the following: native intelligence, sound judgment, level-headedness, prudence, discernment, acumen, sharp-wittedness, canniness, astuteness, shrewdness, judiciousness, wisdom, insight, intuitiveness, perceptiveness, perspicacity, vision, understanding, intelligence, reason, powers of reasoning.

What do you think of the AFL Tribunal's decision to ban Jack Viney?

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Why Bernie is praying for rain

Adelaide coach Brenton Sanderson admits Taylor Walker could have played in the AFL this week, instead he'll be making his return in round nine while his teammates take on the Melbourne Demons and former teammate Bernie Vince.

MELBOURNE is praying for rain as former Crows best-and-fairest Bernie Vince faces Adelaide for the first time at Adelaide Oval on Saturday.

Under new coach Paul Roos, the Demons have improved to become one of the most difficult teams to score against and Vince said a low-scoring game because of inclement weather would be ideal.

MORE: TEX DUE BACK FOR COLLINGWOOD CLASH

Melbourne is averaging 10 fewer goals scored against them this season after adopting similar strategies to the ones Roos employed at Sydney and would cherish a low-scoring game.

The big choke is on.

The difference between Sydney under Roos and Melbourne under Roos has been that the Demons have not been able to put up big scores. That is the second part of the rejuvenation under Roos.

Showers are forecast for today and if they eventuate they are likely to slow down the match.

"In the last few games we've been able to keep sides to pretty low scores but we haven't scored a lot ourselves,'' Vince said.

"But I guess if it's wet, it will suit us — low-scoring game again.

Melbourne midfielder Bernie Vince takes a look at the new Adelaide Oval. Picture: Sarah Reed.

"Our attack is probably something that's let us down a bit but getting Chris Dawes back has been great.

"Hopefully our attack can lift a bit, but (playing) in the wet might suit us.

"Being realistic where we came from, coming off winning two games last year, 'Roosy' thought the best was to turn that around was to get our defence right first, to really try to choke the opposition and stop them scoring.

"The offence hasn't been put on the backburner but that's the thing we've found the toughest: to score. And it hasn't helped to have all of our key forwards out.

"That's probably the thing we've been working on the most.

Melbourne is acutely aware of Adelaide's potential to score freely after studying Vince's old side closely over the first six rounds.

"They're a very attacking side and they've scored big,'' Vince said.

"Even in the games that they've lost it's been a real shoot-out.

"We're going to try to stop what their strength is and that's their high scoring.

"We've just got to make sure we tackle well — all the little things — (winning) the contested ball and get the ball going our way and hopefully stop their outside run.

"They build up from half back and can then attack well. We need to shut down guys like David McKay and Brodie Smith and those sort of guys who really create that run.

"They've got some real guns in there that can really hurt us but if the surface is a bit wet it might suit us a bit more."

He is aware of the close attention he is likely to receive in the midfield.

Sam Kerridge, who took his old number, is likely to be standing right next to Vince at the opening bounce.

"Seventeen (No. 17) was pretty close to me because I used to wear it but looks like I might be wearing it again tomorrow (Saturday),'' Vince said.

Bernie Vince in action for Melbourne. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: News Corp Australia

HAPPY HOMECOMING FOR BERNIE

BERNIE Vince maintains he has no hard feelings over his departure from the Crows and could not look forward more to today's match at Adelaide Oval.

He remains close to the players — and he was one of the club's most popular figures when he played for Adelaide.

Vince is also enjoying his time at his new club, as much as it was a traumatic time when he was traded.

"No, none (hard feelings) at all from me,'' Vince said.

"I'm very good mates with all the guys still and I'll certainly say G'day to them after and there's no hard feelings from my side.

"I keep in pretty close contact with a lot of them anyway.

"I'm sure it will a bit of fun out there. It probably be a little bit weird, too, because I haven't played them yet.''

Vince loved the look at Adelaide Oval, the one he just missed calling his home ground.

But his new digs aren't bad, either.

"Yeah, well, I get to play at the MCG every week,'' Vince said with a cheeky smile.

"You could argue that one as well. But I love playing anywhere, just love playing footy for a job.''

He wasn't sure what to expect from the local supporters.

Vince said he would try to shut it out, regardless of the reaction to him playing against the Crows for the first time.

"It'll be an interesting one but I can't really answer that one,'' Vince said.

"It'll be up to the supporters how they treat me.

"But I don't think it will worry me either way too much. It'll probably be a bit better if they don't boo me but we'll see what happens.''

Vince lives in Melbourne's inner-city suburb of Richmond now, not far from the MCG, and speaks highly about his new lifestyle.

But he conceded there had been some nerves before he completed the shift.

"It was the unknown, going over there, not knowing what to expect,'' Vince said.

"But the boys and the coaches and the club have been awesome.

"I've settled in really well and Melbourne feels like home now.''

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Saving Dees takes more than one man

Coach and saviour Paul Roos talks to his players. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: News Corp Australia

PAUL Roos is the first proven coach - and premiership mentor - at the Melbourne Football Club since Ron Barassi made his grand return in 1981 with a five-year plan ... and with the image of a messiah.

Football clubs do make a habit of reliving history. The question with Roos is: Has Melbourne finally learned one man cannot save its club?

The Demons are renowned for seeking saviours.

Barassi failed, simply under the burden of being asked to carry Melbourne to salvation on and off the field - remarkably after the Demons had undermined his mentor, Norm Smith, in 1965 when its hierarchy feared having one man stand bigger than its club.

Stan Alves started his VFL senior career as Barassi left Melbourne for Carlton in '65.

He finished his 226-game journey at North Melbourne with Barassi as his coach.

"At North Melbourne, Ron Barassi was an outstanding coach because all he did was coach - and he never had to step out of that role because he had a strong support mechanism around him," Alves says.

Adelaide coach Brenton Sanderson admits Taylor Walker could have played in the AFL this week, instead he'll be making his return in round nine while his teammates take on the Melbourne Demons and former teammate Bernie Vince.

"Ron went back to Melbourne as the guru ... and not just as a coach, but in marketing, fundraising. And when the playing list was nowhere near what he had at North Melbourne, you can't work miracles."

Roos, 50, has returned to coaching - after a two-year stint in the media - in an era when AFL coaches are part of the marketing and corporate dollar chase.

But, as Geelong proved with Mark Thompson in 2006, there is a danger when a coach takes on much more than coaching.

Roos also has inherited a player list that has managed just eight wins in 2011, four in 2012 and two last season - and a football club that is seen to have failed with its recruiting and has infrastructure that appears inferior to the league's pacesetters.

Against this backdrop, can one man again try to save the Melbourne Football Club?

"Absolutely not," Roos says. "And we have enough history lessons in this era to highlight that.

"Geelong and Hawthorn are not about just the coach or the chief executive. And my experiences at Fitzroy and Sydney emphasise the importance of a collective effort - and getting the right people in the right positions.

"Ultimately, it will be the players who have the biggest say ..."

Much is made of Melbourne's recruiting - and the lack of development of players taken with prize draftees. Did the Demons' recruiting scouts err? Or is the development program at Melbourne a failure?

In the late 1960s Melbourne simply failed to recruit quality. It lived to the belief players still valued the honour of being a Demon and earning MCC membership after five years on the football club's list.

"It was terrible," Alves recalls.

"Players were identified ... and they'd finish up going to other clubs. The game was becoming professional - and Melbourne did not see the need to (pay)."

Today, Roos has a draft that does not let players slip. His reputation as a Hall of Fame player and a premiership coach at Sydney, allows Roos to lure targets such a Bernie Vince who thought he would be a one-club player at Adelaide.

But now that Roos is on the inside - rather than debating the "recruiting v development" question on the couch for the Fox Footy Channel - what does he make of this log-running question.

"I don't know yet - not after six rounds," Roos answers.

"I don't know what the players have been told or taught - and it hard to take on the burden of what has happened here in the past five years.

"As much as I understand the frustration of the Melbourne supporters, my task is to look to the future - to develop this list as quick as I can. That is all I can do at this time."

So where is Melbourne today? Apparently, at ground zero.

"I'm not happy to with the term 'rebuilding'," Roos said. "We are in the process of trying to play AFL footy - we are a team that has not played AFL football in a long time. Our challenge is to do that on a weekly basis.

"In the short-term, we have to set minimum standards for what is demanded in the AFL on a weekly basis. We're into finding out who can and who can't meet those standards. Good clubs go through that process.

"How long will that take? That depends on talent - look at Hawthorn and Geelong. Great talent creates great teams."

The image of the late Dean Bailey working out of a moveable hut when he coached Melbourne (2008-11) continues another theme that lingers with Alves from the end of the Smith era.

"We were not up to speed," Alves recalls of the infrastructure at Melbourne in the late 1960s. "We had to finish training early because we had no lights - and on the way home I would pull up to Richmond's ground to see them work under Tom Hafey. They would train longer than us. We were caught in a time warp."

Roos says Melbourne is also lost in a crowd of 10 Victorian-based teams in an 18-club national competition.

"Like a lot of teams, Melbourne is trying to find its identity again ... you can get lost in this competition," he said.

Barassi had a five-year plan. Roos intends to be at Melbourne for at least two, perhaps three seasons - and with a successor in place by the end of this year. Alves hopes Roos reconsiders. So does that mean he thinks one man can save Melbourne?

"No," Alves says. "Paul Roos is a fantastic appointment - and having Peter Jackson as the club's chief executive is just as crucial.

"Together, they have to build new infrastructure at Melbourne - and when you compare Melbourne to the structure they have around the coach at Geelong and Hawthorn, you see the Demons are coming from a long way back."

Is Roos prepared to be more than a short-term coach at Melbourne?

"No - I am clear what I have to do and what I signed up to do," Roos said.

Clearly, one man cannot save Melbourne.

Melbourne coach Paul Roos celebrates the win against Carlton with his players. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: News Corp Australia

DEMONS IN HELL

MELBOURNE is the world's oldest football club - formed on July 10, 1858 - and a foundation member of the VFA and the VFL (that is today the AFL).

In 1964 the Demons won their 12th VFL flag, ranking second only to Collingwood as the competition's most-successful club. In the 50 years since this triumph, Melbourne has:

WON no flag and fallen to fourth in the league premiership rankings - behind Carlton (16), Essendon (16) and Collingwood (15).

PLAYED in just two grand finals - 1988 (losing to Hawthorn) and 2000 (losing to Essendon).

COMPETED in just 12 final series - with a 23-year gap between the 1964 grand final and the 1987 major round. The last finals appearance was a semi-final loss to Fremantle in Perth in 2006.

CLAIMED seven wooden spoons - 1969, 1974, 1978, 1981, 1997, 2008 and 2009.

CONTEMPLATED a merger with Hawthorn in 1996.

FALSE PROPHETS

MELBOURNE'S greatest period of success - six premierships from eight grand finals from 1954 to 1964 - was achieved under the legendary stewardship of coach Norm Smith. The Demons have repeatedly sought a "saviour" to restore the club's premier standing in Australian football - and learned no man can save Melbourne on his own.

That challenge even beat the great Ron Barassi who returned to the club as coach - after his success at Carlton and "miracle" at North Melbourne - in 1981.

He inherited talented youth - the Demons' under-19s played in three consecutive grand finals and won flags in 1981 and 1983 - but the seniors ranked last (12th) in Barassi's first season, 8th, 8th, 9th and 11th during his five-year plan.

Barassi later said: "In the five years we were there, I think we raised the level of the club quite substantially. Melbourne reached the preliminary final two years after we left, and the grand final the year after that. I felt we did some of the ground work."

THE NEW SAVIOUR?

PAUL ROOS

THE man who ended VFL-AFL football's longest premiership drought - the 72-year wait at South Melbourne-Sydney - is the 12th man to coach Melbourne since Norm Smith left the Demons in 1967.

Paul Roos returned to coaching this year - after two seasons as a media commentator - with a two-year contract and option for a third season. He has taken on one of the toughest jobs in Australian football with, reportedly, the richest contract ever offered to a coach: $1.5 million a season.

"IT is a fantastic appointment, but I hope he stays longer - it is not a two-year job."

Former Melbourne player and St Kilda coach STAN ALVES.

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Magpie goes Solo in AFL Star Wars epic

Collingwood star Dane Swan is a natural for the Han Solo role. Source: HeraldSun

YOU may have noticed a distinct Star Wars flavour about this week's round of footy.

While the AFL isn't officially calling it Star Wars Round, characters from the famous film series are popping up at press conferences and photo opps and clubs are flogging Star Wars T-shirts and merchandise (although original plans to feature Mick Malthouse as Darth Vader were binned by the Blues).

It's all to coincide with Sunday May 4 — international Star Wars Day: "May the fourth be with you".

It got us to thinking what a footy team from the Star Wars universe might look like.

To get us started, we've matched each character to a current AFL player — via similarities in playing style rather than appearances, it must be said.

Geelong players (from left) Jordan Murdoch, James Kelly and George Burbury get into the spirit of the Star Wars themed-round. Picture: Mitch Bear Source: News Corp Australia

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, from the backline ...

FULL-BACKS

Joel Patfull (Brisbane Lions)

Stormtrooper: A reliable defender and dual best-and-fairest winner who gets the job done every week with little fanfare and even less recognition.

Dustin Fletcher (Essendon)

General Grievous: The ageless stalwart of Essendon's backline. At times, seems to have four arms as he manages to find a way to spoil his opponents.

Josh Gibson (Hawthorn)

Imperial Guard: Stands like a sentinel in the Hawks' defensive 50m. Constantly at attention and ready to unleash a timely fist.

The multi-limbed General Grievous would be tough to beat in one-on-one contests. Source: Supplied

HALF-BACKS

Corey Enright (Geelong)

Wedge Antilles: Like the Rebel Alliance general, Enright launches guerilla raids on the enemy from the half-back line.

Luke McPharlin (Fremantle)

Admiral Ackbar: It's a trap! ... sorry we couldn't help ourselves. McPharlin marshals the stingiest defence in the league. He bears no resemblance to a giant fish.

Ryan Crowley (Fremantle)

Darth Maul: Appears at his opponent's side like a malevolent shadow and cuts them down. Can pinch an opponent 300 times without an umpire noticing.

Which of these two guys would you rather have standing next to you at a centre bounce? Source: Supplied

CENTRES

Dale Thomas (Carlton)

Anakin Skywalker: We're not saying Carlton is the dark side ... but many Collingwood fans believe Daisy gave up his soul.

Chris Judd (Carlton)

Darth Vader: Was once the pin-up boy of the AFL but as he's got older has used some dark tactics (pressure points and chicken wings). Anakin and Darth are both at Carlton ... just sayin.

Joel Selwood (Geelong)

Boba Fett: Willing to get his hands dirty to get the job done. A ruthless leader who can escape a tackle with a simple shrug of his shoulders.

Boba Fett is a clone and Joel is one of four Selwoods to play AFL. Coincidence? Source: Supplied

HALF-FORWARDS

Lenny Hayes (St Kilda)

Obi-Wan Kenobi: The veteran has done his apprenticeship and is now a midfield master. As he nears the end, he is passing on his wisdom to the Saints bunch of young guns.

Tyrone Vickery (Richmond)

Jar Jar Binks: Tall, clumsy and often criticised. Sorry Tyrone, but you fit the bill perfectly.

Cyril Rioli (Hawthorn)

Ewok: Small and dangerous. Is there a better way to describe Cyril? Defenders never know when he will strike.

Weesa not kicking any goals. That's why you no liking us meesa thinks. Source: Supplied

FULL-FORWARDS

Hayden Ballantyne (Fremantle)

R2-D2: The Fremantle goalsneak is handy in a fight but is perhaps best known for annoying his rivals into a state of despair possibly (although we can't confirm this) with high-pitched beeping noises.

Travis Cloke (Collingwood)

Chewbacca: An old fashioned "gorilla" full-forward, Cloke can handle two defenders at once. Few are brave enough to stand in his way. He hasn't yet pulled a defender's arms out of his sockets after a loss, but it's not a huge stretch of the imagination.

Will Minson (Western Bulldogs)

C-3PO: The droid is fluent in six million forms of communication. Will can speak two languages. We think that's close enough. Regarded as the smartest footballer going around.

R-2 says the chances of victory are 725 ... to one. Source: HeraldSun

RUCKS

Aaron Sandilands (Fremantle)

Wookie: The Dockers big man gets a game for one simple reason: He was very nearly in an actual Star Wars movie. Gerard Whately revealed on AFL360 this week that the 211cm Sandilands was reportedly offered a contract to play a wookie on the big screen before Fremantle picked him in the wookie — sorry, rookie draft.

Dane Swan (Collingwood)

Han Solo: The quintessential rebel. Swan is one of the few characters left in the AFL with his various tattoos and famous training standards.

Gary Ablett (Gold Coast)

Luke Skywalker: It has been many years since young Ablett stepped out of the shadow of his famous father. The hero of the AFL, Gaz can pick up 30 touches with ease and kick goals from 50m out as easily as bulls-eyeing womp rats.

Gary Ablett thrives in any conditions. Source: HeraldSun

COACH

Paul Roos (Melbourne)

Yoda: Verging on legendary status after delivering Sydney its first premiership since 1933 and arriving at Melbourne with huge expectations. Hired to mentor the Demons' talented but directionless youngsters.

Paul Roos' message to Demon fans is simple: Patience you must have. Source: HeraldSun

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Tex set for Collingwood clash

Taylor Walker in action for Adelaide's SANFL side against Glenelg. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: News Corp Australia

Adelaide are expected to continue their cautious approach with Taylor Walker with the forward set to play for the Crows' state league side against Port Adelaides reserve team on Sunday.

TAYLOR Walker will play in Adelaide's Round 9 blockbuster against Collingwood if he gets through Sunday's SANFL clash unscathed, according to coach Brenton Sanderson.

Sanderson said the club thought long and hard about playing its ace key forward against Melbourne at Adelaide Oval tomorrow but felt Walker would benefit from a second consecutive SANFL hit-out after missing 12 months following a knee reconstruction.

If he gets through Sunday's game he will be rested from the SANFL next week in preparation for the May 15 match against the Magpies.

The Crows have the AFL bye next week.

SLOANE: WE'LL TARGET BERNIE

"Tex is ready to play (AFL) but we're sticking with the original plan of giving him two games in the SANFL, which will give him the best preparation to play in the AFL," Sanderson said.

"He will go to the AFL program after this round.

"He'll have the 10-day break with the AFL squad leading into the Collingwood game.

"If he plays well and gets through the (Port) Magpies game up in Clare we would be foolish not to play him against Collingwood.

"He was really close to playing this week and he looks strong, he looks fit and we're really excited to get Tex back in the mix after 12 months out."

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