Tigers focus on 'critical errors'

Jack Riewoldt is tackled by David Astbury and Chris Newman at Tigers training much to the delight of coach Damien Hardwick. Source: Getty Images

RICHMOND coach Damien Hardwick says the Tigers gave up nine easy goals to Geelong through "critical errors", but he's confident they can be avoided this week.

In an email to club members, Hardwick described as unacceptable the costly mistakes against Geelong, which included failing to take the ball over the boundary line in defence, trying to mark instead of spoil in the Cats' goalsquare and allowing loose players inside the defensive 50m.

Hardwick addressed the mistakes at a press conference today, saying the positive was they were all fixable.

After a strong start to the season, the Tigers take on high-flying Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium on Saturday having lost their last three matches - teetering with a 3-3 win-loss record.

"The rate of errors from us was probably the thing we haven't made in a long time," Hardwick said.

"We felt we took a step back in that area ... whether it was the pressure of Geelong or just a mental error from ourselves - we think it's probably the latter.

"We get another chance this week to rectify the results of the previous three.

"No doubt these sort of games can galvanise a group.

"We haven't had some good performances over the last couple of weeks, and it's great to go away as a group ... and play some good football."

Port premiership coach Mark Williams and ex-Power defender Troy Chaplin head a contingent from that club who have switched to Richmond - Hardwick himself a 2004 premiership player at Alberton.

Hardwick admitted some of Chaplin's intelligence on certain Port Adelaide players had been tapped into, though the Power's style is different under new coach Ken Hinkley.

Tigers defenders Dylan Grimes and Ricky Petterd have already been ruled out of the match with injuries.

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Pyke welcomes extra tall

Mike Pyke at the SCG. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph

SYDNEY ruckman Mike Pyke believes form not height should determine whether the Swans can squeeze Shane Mumford, prize recruit Kurt Tippett and himself into their AFL line-up.

The Canadian on Saturday returns to the MCG for the 2012 Grand Final rematch with Hawthorn having played 24 straight games.

Pyke believes he now belongs on AFL grounds and that his spot had been reasonably secure since his a good run of games from mid-2012.

The 29-year-old has made a sizzling start to the season, running third in the competition for contested marks and fifth in hitouts.

"I like to think as my career continues, I'll continue to get better and continue playing my best footy," said Pyke, who reached the 50-game milestone for Sydney last month.

Tippett isn't available until Round 13 due to the suspension he incurred because of a salary cap breach with Adelaide, but the 202cm forward-ruckman casts a big shadow.

Conventional AFL wisdom suggests three is a crowd where big men are concerned and there won't be room for 198cm Mumford, 201cm Pyke and Tippett.

"I think sometimes people get a bit caught up on height," Pyke said.

"I think the most important thing is that your best 22 is in form and I think typically they pick themselves that way."

He was adamant Tippett's arrival in Sydney hadn't been the spur for his own fantastic form.

"I'm a reasonably driven person myself, without sort of external influence and I just try and improve every session," Pyke said.

"It (Tippett's arrival) is a coincidence, maybe it's not.

"I think there's always been a fair bit of competition in the big man spot at the club so it's sort of continued with Kurt coming."

Kurt Tippett wrestles with Swans big man Mike Pyke. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph

The tag team ruckman combination of Pyke and Mumford has been a strong factor in Sydney's 5-1 start to the season.

"I think we're fortunate that we can sort of complement each other," Pyke said.

"Sometimes I think we sort of get to bully on some of the guys who go alone out in the ruck."

Pyke adopted the typical Swans low-key stance when asked about Saturday's much-anticipated clash.

"Last year was really special for us, but this year realistically for us it's four points," Pyke said.

A former Canadian rugby international, Pyke was disappointed he wouldn't be in Sydney for the British and Irish Lions Test against the Wallabies in July.

The Swans are away in Melbourne that weekend, but Pyke said he would definitely watch the series on television.

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LIVE: AFL teams Round 7

Shane Crawford details his plan to recover from a disastrous week in SuperCoach.

Essendon's Brent Stanton is fighting to overcome a groin injury in time for the Bombers' clash against Geelong. Picture: Kym Smith Source: The Daily Telegraph

JOIN the live chat from 5.30pm EST to see the AFL teams as they drop and get the best SuperCoach advice.

Here's some of what we know already:

JARRAD Waite and Justin Koschitzke are out suspended.

ST KILDA has also been hit by injuries to Lenny Hayes (calf) and Sam Gilbert (knee). Gilbert won't play for up to three months.

ESSENDON has six first-choice players available for selection including Dustin Fletcher, Michael Hurley, Patrick Ryder and Dyson Heppell. But Brent Stanton is struggling with a groin injury.

RICHMOND has ruled out defenders Dylan Grimes and Ricky Petterd for its clash against Port Adelaide.

MELBOURNE has lost both its co-captains to injury, with Jack Trengove (calf) joining Jack Grimes (shoulder) on the casualty list. In their absence Nathan Jones will lead the Dees against Gold Coast.

And some of what we don't...

WILL Bryce Gibbs recover from a hamstring problem to face St Kilda on Monday night?

WILL Collingwood roll the dice on Luke Ball for its trip to Perth to play Fremantle?

WILL Paul Chapman return to face the Bombers?

WILL Kangaroos Lachie Hansen and Robbie Tarrant pass fitness tests - and if they do, will they force Majak Daw out of the side?

Find out the answers to those questions and more in the live chat from 5.30pm EST - and throw your best SuperCoach questions at Sam Landsberger.

If you need more SuperCoach intel tune into The SuperCoach Show from 6pm on Fox Footy and enjoy the dual-screen experience while you chat.

On a mobile? Click HERE for a better chat experience.

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Boomer to be fresher, later

It's been a long wait for Kangaroos veteran Brent Harvey, but he's back this week against the Western Bulldogs. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

NORTH Melbourne veteran Brent Harvey admits to guilt and frustration at missing the first six AFL rounds but believes he can finish the season stronger as a result.

Harvey's six-match ban - stemming from two striking offences in last year's elimination final loss to West Coast - has meant enduring some agonisingly close defeats from the sidelines, including a four-point loss to Geelong in round two and three-point loss to Hawthorn in round five.

"Obviously I do feel guilty because I should be out there helping my teammates," Harvey told reporters on Wednesday.

"But I think it was more frustration knowing how good we're playing but we couldn't get the result on the board."

The Kangaroos are 2-4 heading into Harvey's comeback match against the Western Bulldogs on Saturday.

But Harvey, who turns 35 next Tuesday, believes the club is still firmly in the finals hunt.

And he says one positive from his ban is that he has never felt fresher at this stage of a season and expects to be hitting peak form as other players are starting to fatigue.

"It's a long pre-season now, then you play three or four NAB Cup games, then you play the season," Harvey said.

"Come rounds 13, 14, 15 the boys start hitting a little bit of a brick wall. Hopefully I'm still going well."

He's also thankful his return coincides with a milestone game for two close mates, North defenders Michael Firrito, who will play his 200th match on Saturday, and Scott Thompson, who plays his 100th.

"I would have been a little bit spewing if I wasn't out there for that," he said.

Harvey said both players had everything you could want in a teammate, particularly their willingness to do whatever they could to help the club win.

His time spent in the coaches box during his suspension has helped fuel a desire to explore that avenue once his playing days are over.

But the veteran of a club record 346 games hopes that is not for some time, indicating he will play on next season if he can.

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Suns to use Dees as GF practice

Gary Ablett's Gold Coast Suns will not only be chasing four points when they play Melbourne at the MCG, but valuable experience at the ground. Picture: Adam Head Source: HWT Image Library

GOLD Coast coach Guy McKenna wants his team to use their clash with Melbourne at the MCG as preparation for a future AFL grand final.

While taking on the second-last Demons in a Sunday afternoon round seven fixture might not seem like the kind of game where future premiership stars will emerge, McKenna says it's the venue which is the key.

The former West Coast half-back won two grand finals at the MCG with the Eagles and is adamant a key to finals glory is being comfortable in your ability to perform at the venue.

"It's probably not who you're playing at the MCG, it's just the MCG itself," McKenna told reporters on Wednesday.

"It's a game where you want to put your name out there and know you can perform at the MCG because you're going to have to at some stage.

"There's going to be a grand final or finals series and you want to know you can perform.

"It certainly helps the coaching group to know you can perform at the MCG because, fingers crossed, down the track, you want to be playing there in September. That's when reputations are made."

The Suns have played four fixtures at the MCG since entering the competition in 2011, losing on all four occasions.

And if McKenna believes performing at the ground is a mark of a player then his team has fallen short so far.

In those four matches the Suns have conceded over 100 points in each and the closest margin was a 30-point loss to the Demons on their first visit in 2011.

But McKenna is hopeful his 2013 edition can respond to criticism in the wake of last weekend's disappointing loss to an undermanned Fremantle and prove their worth.

The club is yet to make a call on whether Campbell Brown will return to the line-up after his six-week suspension ended.

Brown is one of those proven MCG performers McKenna seems to rate after winning the 2008 premiership with Hawthorn, but a lack of match fitness is undermining the 29-year-old's bid for an instant recall.

"We know he can compete, there's no issue with that," McKenna said.

"It's whether he can sustain that for four quarters and that's the big coaching dilemma we've got this week."

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Full steam ahead for Nic Nat

READY TO GO: Nic Naitanui will play a full game this weekend against Brisbane. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

NIC Naitanui is set to be unleashed from the opening bounce when West Coast takes on Brisbane at the Gabba on Saturday.

Naitanui made his long-awaited comeback following groin surgery as a substitute mid-way through the third quarter in the 70-point belting of the Western Bulldogs on Sunday.

Coach John Worsfold said the All-Australian ruckman had been cleared by conditioning staff to step up his workload against the Lions after pulling up well from his return cameo.

"We've been given the OK that he can play 90 minutes this week, which is basically a full game. So that's good news," Worsfold said.

"In that 90 minutes, he could easily split that 50/50 (between the ruck and the forward line)."

"(He pulled up) really well. No additional soreness or anything. Everything's tracking according to the plan."

Worsfold was confident midfielder Luke Shuey would be fit to take on the Lions after copping a cork to the calf on Sunday.

"Initially we thought it may have been a strain, but it's just a cork. Our expectation is at this stage that he'll be right to play," he said.

"Unless it was a really bad cork, you normally get it out after three or four days and then there should be no issue.

"So it's really going to depend on him opening up later in the week running wise and seeing how it feels."

Defenders Beau Waters and Sam Butler are set to miss again, while experienced pair Adam Selwood and Matt Rosa are available but face a fight to push their way back into the side after solid outings with East Perth in the WAFL.

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Gilbert could miss three months

Sam Gilbert on crutches after hurting his knee against Collingwood.

ST KILDA defender Sam Gilbert will miss up to 12 weeks after knee surgery today.

Gilbert hurt his knee when he was tackled by Ben Reid as he kicked the Saints into attack against Collingwood on Friday night.

St Kilda confirmed today Gilbert will not need a full knee reconstruction.

He had lateral ligament damage repaired and will miss 8-12 weeks "depending on the progress of his rehabilitation".

The running defender was averaging 14 disposals a game before Friday night and has kicked four goals for the season.

He joins Lenny Hayes (calf) and Justin Koschitzke (suspension) as casualties from the match.

Hayes is expected to miss 2-4 weeks.

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The Barometer: Round 7

Jarrad Waite faces a one-match suspension for this incident against Demon Tom McDonald

Chris Dawes has played two VFL games and could be recalled for his Dees debut this week. Picture: Derrick Den Hollander Source: Herald Sun

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

ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Nathan Van Berlo (knee) 2 weeks
Sam Shaw (hamstring) 5 weeks
Sam Siggins (ankle) 1 week
Taylor Walker (knee) season
Lewis Johnston (knee) 8 weeks
Brad Crouch (hamstring) 1-2 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Matt Wright started as the sub against Hawthorn and finished with seven disposals while Jarryd Lyons only had 10 touches before being subbed off. Luke Brown had another low disposal count but that hasn't hurt him at selection so far.

ON THE CUSP: Ian Callinan had 22 touches and kicked two goals for Central Districts and Graham Johncock booted two for Port Magpies. Jared Petrenko had 18 disposals and a goal. Lewis Johston is out as a potential Taylor Walker replacement after hurting his left knee in the SANFL.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The man the Crows really need to get going is Sam Jacobs. He is well down on his outstanding 2012 form and it is making life a lot tougher for the Adelaide midfield. Patrick Dangerfield returned to form with a bang on Saturday, big Sauce might be next. Fixtures against GWS and St Kilda in the next two weeks give the Crows a chance to jump back into the finals mix.

If you don't mind, umpire!

BRISBANE

INJURIES
Claye Beams (knee) season
Stef Martin (ankle) 5 weeks
Jared Polec (ankle) 5 weeks
Jesse O'Brien (adductor) 2 weeks
Matt McGuire (ankle) 1 week
Daniel Rich (shoulder) 6 weeks
Steven Wrigley (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: Plenty to choose from if Michael Voss wants to swing the axe. Marco Paparone, Rohan Bewick, Sam Mayes and Josh Green were all quiet against the Swans, while Aaron Cornelius was subbed off after just three kicks.

ON THE CUSP: Sam Docherty was best afield in the Lions reserves' 23-point win against Sydney's twos in the NEAFL. Jordan Lisle bagged another four goals while Patrick Karnezis kicked three. Ryan Harwood is also pushing for a senior berth. Voss said Simon Black was close to full match fitness last week and he must be tempted to give the veteran a call.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Lions get West Coast at just the wrong time and that's only the start of a horror run – with Essendon, Carlton, Collingwood, Fremantle, Geelong and Hawthorn to follow in the next seven weeks. Unless they can find something a 2-9 scoreline would put Voss in a very uncomfortable position.

SuperCoach studs and duds of Round 6

CARLTON

INJURIES
Andrew Carrazzo (calf) test
Chris Yarran (hamstring) test
Bryce Gibbs (hamstring) test
Jarrad Waite (suspension) 1 week
Matthew Kreuzer (thumb) 5 weeks
Andrew McInnes (knee) 5-6 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: They waited a long time for him to come back, now Jarrad Waite will go straight back out. He has been suspended for one match for headbutting Melbourne's Tom McDonald (watch video of the incident HERE). The clash against Melbourne was Waite's first senior game of the year and only his 12th since the start of last season following his battle with back and leg injuries. It was poor form by Waite, who should know better. Chris Yarran is also a good chance to miss with hamstring tightness. They won't want to risk him.

ON THE CUSP: Andrew Carazzo came out late against Melbourne and should return from a corked calf. Bryce Gibbs said at a pre-match function on Sunday he expects to return against Port Adelaide in Round 8. Tom Bell and Levi Casboult both impressed in the VFL at the weekend and would have to be a chance.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: Things are starting to look up at Carlton. The Blues are over their hard patch, have come out of it pretty well and now face St Kilda after a good, long break. They are playing good, exciting football. And with Eddie Betts, Chris Yarran and Jeff Garlett on song up forward, they are very hard to stop.

Live HQ: SuperCoach scores, stats and more

COLLINGWOOD

INJURIES
Dayne Beams (Quad) 1-2 weeks
Brodie Grundy (Back) 1-2 weeks
Lachlan Keeffe (Knee) 1-2 weeks
Nick Maxwell (Fractured wrist) 1-2 weeks
Clinton Young (Hamstring) 1-2 weeks
Michael Hartley (Shoulder) 3 weeks
Tim Broomhead (Glandular Fever) 4-5 weeks
Jack Frost (knee) 5-6 weeks
Jackson Ramsay Wrist 6-7 weeks
Alan Toovey (knee) Season

ON THE BLOCK: He wasn't playing in the seniors, but terrible to see defender Jack Frost go down with a knee injury in the VFL at the weekend. He's out for 5-6 weeks. Also in the twos, small forward Alex Fasolo has been reporting for rough conduct. In terms of the seniors this week, the likes of Jarrod Witts, Josh Thomas and Ben Kennedy may find themselves in the gun despite the win over St Kilda. Because there are a few impending inclusions.

ON THE CUSP: Some big names are on the cusp at Collingwood. The Magpies say both midfielder Luke Ball and Alan Didak are very close after shining in the VFL on Sunday. Will both come in? Didak could be the spark they are looking for, but Rodney Eade said on AFL360 Ball was likely to spend one more game in the VFL.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: JUST did enough against St Kilda, but there was little to get excited about for Pies supporters. This week they face the Nathan Fyfe-less Fremantle at Patersons Stadium this week. The task itself won't trouble the Pies, who have a very strong away record. But they need to find something as they are still way below their best. And have been for a long time. Really missing Dayne Beams.

Luke Ball pushes himself at Collingwood training. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON

INJURIES
Brent Stanton (groin) test

ON THE BLOCK: James Hird said after Saturday's win against GWS he was "very hopeful" Brent Stanton would overcome a groin injury in time to play Geelong but with the game on Friday night he has to be a long shot. With up to six first-choice players returning some will have to make way – Nick Kommer, Leroy Jetta, Jackson Merrett, Tayte Pears and Scott Gumbleton might get the bad news on Thursday. David Hille definitely won't be at Etihad Stadium – he's in France after being given two weeks' leave to attend the wedding of a close friend.

ON THE CUSP: Get your pen and paper ready – Michael Hurley (ankle), Jake Carlisle (ankle), Dustin Fletcher (groin), Dyson Heppell (groin), Patrick Ryder (suspension) and Jason Winderlich (rested) are all ready to return. Don't expect a big push for Joe Daniher to make his debut this week. He snagged two goals as Essendon went down to Coburg in the VFL. Corey Dell'Olio kicked three goals in that game while an interesting name in the best players was former Gold Coast defender Josh Toy.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: Hope you have a ticket already for what is a genuine blockbuster at Etihad Stadium on Friday night. Essendon took about two-and-a-half quarters longer than expected to blow GWS away and they won't get away with the same sort of sluggish start this week. But with possibly an entire list to choose from, the Bombers have every reason to believe they will be 7-0 on Saturday morning.

The Herald Sun's Michael Warner says Essendon Chairman, David Evans, should consider resigning.

Essendon's Brent Stanton shakes off his GWS opponent at Manuka Oval. Picture: Kym Smith Source: The Daily Telegraph

FREMANTLE

INJURIES

Kepler Bradley (knee) season
Anthony Morabito (knee) season
Aaron Sandiland (foot) 5 weeks
Matthew Pavlich (Achilles) 4 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Not too many. The Dockers unlikely to make too many changes for their clash against Collingwood at Patersons Stadium. They don't need to after  a strong performance against the Gold Coast Suns. If there is a change or two, Tendai Mzungu and Cameron Sutcliffe might be the unlucky ones to be looked at.

ON THE CUSP: The only probable in looks to be star midfielder Stephen Hill. He missed the win over the Suns with a quadriceps injury, but coach Ross Lyon is hopeful he will return to tackle the Magpies. Given they are already without the suspended Nathan Fyfe (why oh why did they challenge that again?), they will need Hill against Collingwood's gun midfielders.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: A little bit of a statement against Gold Coast last week. Quite a few suggested they were ripe for the picking at Metricon Stadium last Saturday night. The Dockers were having none of it and put the Suns back in their place. But this is a much bigger challenge. They will go in primed for a massive scalp. They are every chance as well up against a Collingwood side well below their best.

Top 40 gallery: The best photos from Round 6

GEELONG

INJURIES
Paul Chapman (hamstring) test
Travis Varcoe (shoulder) 8-10 weeks
Daniel Menzel (knee) season
Jared Rivers (knee) indefinite
Josh Cowan (Achilles) indefinite
Hamish McIntosh (knee) indefinite
George Burbury (foot) indefinite
Jed Bews (foot) indefinite
Dawson Simpson (back) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Not many for this undefeated powerhouse. Jordan Murdoch and George Horlin-Smith wore the red and green vests respectively to border dangerously on the edge, but the Cats had a wealth of performers against the Tigers on Saturday night.

ON THE CUSP: Paul Chapman is expected to return for the Friday night blockbuster against the Bombers after missing two weeks with a hamstring. Nathan Vardy booted six goals in the VFL but the Cats won't rush him, while first-round pick Jackson Thurlow – who has drawn some comparison to Corey Enright with his style of play – remains in the frame.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: A massive three-week stretch looms for the Cats, starting against the Dons on Friday night. After that it's the Pies and a resurgent Port Adelaide away, while their side is as good as it's going get with only Chapman to come back in the foreseeable future. A pair of victories from that stretch will have the Cats all but locked in for a top-four finish with a swathe of matches at the redeveloped Simonds Stadium to follow.

Paul Chapman attempts to bust a tackle. Picture: Bear Mitch Source: Herald Sun

GWS GIANTS

INJURIES
Dean Brogan (suspended) available
Matthew Buntine (lung) available
Lachie Whitfield (soreness) test
Setanta O'hAilpin (calf) TBC
Dom Tyson (knee) 3 weeks
Phil Davis (back) 5 weeks
Chad Cornes (shoulder) indefinite
Jon Patton (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: The Giants played their best match for the year, so don't expect too much change. Zac Williams butchered the footy a little bit after starting as the sub.

ON THE CUSP: The Giants reserves had a bye at the weekend, but expect Lachie Whitfield to come back in after missing with soreness. Dean Brogan should return after serving a three-match ban, while Adam Kennedy was a late withdrawal on Saturday.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: A testing period awaits leading into the bye with matches against the Crows, Eagles, Blues and Hawks ahead. But with kids in the ilk of Jono O'Rourke, Matt Buntine and Lachie Whitfield to return – and Jezza Cameron starting to hit his straps – the future continues to shine blindly. Jacob Townsend's negating role against Jobe Watson at the weekend was also a tremendous victory.

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HAWTHORN

INJURIES
Xavier Ellis (calf) test
Jed Anderson (hamstring) test
Brent Guerra (knee) test
Brendan Whitecross (knee) 3 weeks
Cyril Rioli (hamstring) 5-7 weeks
Matthew Suckling (knee) indefinite
Alex Woodward (knee) indefinite
Ryan Schoenmakers (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: Not many. Jon Simpkin looked OK when he came on in his Hawks debut on Saturday, while youngster Taylor Duryea's use of the footy was excellent. Buddy escaped punishment from the match review panel although Mark Robinson is still worried about his angry style of play. Scans have cleared Brent Guerra of any serious damage, so expect him to front up on Saturday night.

ON THE CUSP: Expect little change. Shane Savage impressed in the Hawks' big VFL win over the baby Bendigo side, while Kyle Cheney remains on the fringe. Mitch Hallahan is also showing promising signs, while Xavier Ellis could return for Box Hill this week. Max Bailey was a late out at the weekend.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: A massive test this week for the Hawks, who are winning despite having key players down on output in an impressive sign. Don't expect much change after the victory against the Crows, while this week ends Hawthorn's nightmare start to the season where it faced every 2012 finalist.

GOLD COAST

INJURIES
Charlie Dixon (ankle) test
Steven May (hamstring) test
Daniel Gorringe (hamstring) TBA
Matthew Warnock (arm) indefinite
Joel Wilkinson (ankle) 2-4 weels
Seb Tape (knee) 2 week
Maverick Weller (shoulder) 1 week
Nathan Bock (leg) indefinite

ON THE BLOCK: Brandon Matera needs to show a hell of a lot more than what he did against Fremantle, and we all know he is capable of it. But expect to see him stay in as the Suns will need him to beat Melbourne. Matt Shaw and Aaron Hall are also running out of credits. Charlie Dixon was subbed out with an ankle injury against Fremantle, but it is not major. He is considered a good chance of getting up this week.

ON THE CUSP: The versatile Steven May missed last week with a hamstring niggle, but is a good chance of returning this week. It will be interesting to see whether exciting forward Liam Patrick is considered after a strong performance in his NEAFL return last weekend.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: Very disappointing performance against Fremantle. But they need to wipe the slate clean and get themselves back up quickly because this is a very winnable game against Melbourne at the MCG on Sunday. It all depends on their mindset. They need to rediscover the killer instinct that saw them dispose of St Kilda in Round 1 and put away the Giants a fortnight ago.

Gold Coast Suns Charlie Dixon celebrates a goal against GWS at Manuka Oval. Picture: Kym Smith Source: The Sunday Telegraph

MELBOURNE

INJURIES

Mark Jamar (groin) TBC
Jack Watts (hamstring) TBC
Jack Grimes (collarbone) 4-8 weeks
Mitch Clark (foot) 5-6 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: This is not the week for wholesale changes at Melbourne. It is a winnable game, so they will want to keep the side reasonably settled, within reason. They lose co-captain Jack Grimes with a broken collarbone. The big question is what to do with Jack Trengove? He needs to find some form, because he is really struggling. But can they drop him given the other co-captain is already injured? Big decision for coach Mark Neeld.

ON THE CUSP: Finally, Chris Dawes should come in. The former Magpie will slot straight in at full-forward, which is great news given there is no Mitch Clark there. Neville Jetta will return from suspension. Expect to also see David Rodan in the mix.

NICK SMART'S FORECAST: Whether they deserve to or not, the Demons head into the clash against the Suns at the MCG as favourites. It's a winnable game for them, that's for sure. But they are terribly low on confidence and the Suns will be up for it. They can't avoid to fly the white flag this week, otherwise the spotlight shines right back on them.

NORTH MELBOURNE

INJURIES
Robbie Tarrant (leg) test
Dan Currie (thumb) 6 weeks
Tom Curran (foot) season

ON THE BLOCK: Will Sierakowski performed gamely in his AFL debut collecting 11 disposals. Substitute Taylor Hine didn't get a lot of opportunity and could come under scrutiny at selection. Majak Daw did a lot right in his third AFL game but looms as the first tall to fall pending Robbie Tarrant's fitness.

ON THE CUSP: Veteran playmaker Brent Harvey is a walk-up start. Tarrant must prove his fitness after missing his second match with a leg injury and rebounding defender Ben Jacobs made his case for a recall collecting 31 disposals in VFL-affiliate North Ballarat's win over Frankston. Fringe midfielder Levi Greenwood was solid against VFL premiers Geelong while Jordan Gysberts relished his move onto the wing, finishing with 23 touches and a goal.

GILBERT GARDINER'S FORECAST: Boomer's back! Harvey will inject speed and class into a Kangaroos line-up crying out for effective ball use in Saturday's clash against the Western Bulldogs. Aaron Black has done enough to warrant his selection while young rebounding defenders Shaun Atley and Jamie Macmillan continue to impress with their ball-winning ability and dash off half-back. The Kangaroos face a good test against the Doggies being led superbly by ruckman Will Minson, one of the competition's best at giving his midfielders first use. With a road trip to Perth the following week this looms as a must-win for the Shinboners looking to get their season back on track.

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PORT ADELAIDE

INJURIES
Jasper Pittard (hip flexor) test
Danny Butcher (AC joint) available
Brett Ebert (adductor) 2-4 weeks
Jackson Trengove (foot) 9 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Brent Renouf and Paul Stewart wore the green and red vests on Saturday and neither set the world on fire. Campbell Heath had only six disposals for the afternoon and Lewis Stevenson nine. Kane Mitchell made the most of his chance, picking up 15 disposals, and seems safe.

ON THE CUSP: Alipate Carlile said today Jasper Pittard is a 50-50 chance to return from his hip flexor injury against the Tigers on Saturday but that might be optimistic. Sam Colquhoun has been an emergency four times this season – including each of the past three weeks - and must be close to a debut after being named in the best again for Central District. Andrew Moore is also waiting for a chance, he was named in North Adelaide's best players.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: No Ken Hinkley, no Port Adelaide? The coach will be back delivering instructions in person this weekend instead of text messages and although there will be fewer opportunities to use emoticons, the personal touch will be a big boost after Port dropped its first game of the year. Who ever thought facing the Power on the rebound would be a big issue this season?

Jasper Pittard shows his much stronger frame at Port Adelaide training. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

RICHMOND

INJURIES
Reece Conca (foot) 3-4 weeks
Brett O'Hanlon (ankle) TBA
Ivan Maric (ankle) test
Tyrone Vickery (concussion) test
Ricky Petterd (calf) test

ON THE BLOCK: After an almost injury-free start to the season, the Tigers suddenly have a host of sore bodies – and at the worst possible time. As well as the above list Jake King has a hand injury and Dylan Grimes has a sore foot. They will both fly to Adelaide and Maric is a good chance to play but Vickery has to pass a concussion test and Petterd might miss. If there is a selection change due to form, Matt White seems the most likely casualty. He was subbed on for Vickery just after halftime against the Cats and struggled to have any impact on the contest.

ON THE CUSP: Better news here for Tiger fans. Coburg scored an impressive win against Essendon's VFL side on Saturday with several players putting their names forward for senior selection. Shane Tuck returned from a week's rest to gather 25 disposals while Nathan Foley is ready to go after 24 touches of his own. Former Roo Aaron Edwards had 22 disposals and took 16 marks, adding two goals to take his tally to 14 in the past three weeks. Robin Nahas booted four, as did young tall Liam McBean. If Maric and/or Vickery doesn't come up, former Cat Orren Stephenson is waiting in the wings.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: Is it too early to say Richmond's season is on the line against Port Adelaide on Saturday? After a flying start the Tiger bandwagon is looking wobbly and the AAMI Stadium clash might determine which of these two teams plays in September. After that the Tigers face Melbourne before tough assignments against Essendon and West Coast leading into the bye.

Cometh the man. Cometh the mullet. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

ST KILDA

INJURIES
Sam Gilbert (knee) 8-12 weeks
Lenny Hayes (calf) 2-4 weeks
Daniel Markworth (knee) season
Adam Schneider (hamstring) 2-3 weeks
Beau Maister (wrist) 1-2 weeks

ON THE BLOCK: Brodie Murdoch had just one kick after being subbed on during the Saints' loss to Collingwood and Josh Saunders could also get a rest, while Ahmed Saad's form is a major worry – he didn't register a score on Friday night. But St Kilda will already be making forced changes after losing Gilbert during the game, Hayes in the warm-up and Justin Koschitzke to suspension. Gilbert had knee surgery today and will miss up to three months.

ON THE CUSP: Farren Ray has earned a recall after picking up 26 disposals and kicking two goals as Sandringham came from 38 points down late in the third term to score a remarkable win against the Northern Blues yesterday. Tom Ledger (31 disposals) is due for another chance while James Gwilt picked up 18 touches in his return from a knee injury. Tom Hickey hasn't dominated but is the most likely replacement for Kosi. Excitement machine Spencer White was given the weekend off.

AL PATON'S FORECAST: The Saints took Sydney and Collingwood almost to the wire and will give themselves a chance on Monday night after defeating Carlton in their two meetings last season. Gwilt will come in for Gilbert and Hickey covers Kosi, but Lenny isn't so easy to replace. Scott Watters needs Nick Dal Santo to show he isn't a spent force.

SYDNEY

INJURIES
Rhyce Shaw (abdominal strain) 2 weeks
Lewis Roberts-Thompson (knee) 5-7 weeks
Gary Rohan (leg) indefinite
Alex Johnson (knee) season

ON THE BLOCK: Not many ahead of the Grand Final rematch. Jed Lamb, the flashy kid who resembled Stevie J a bit in his final TAC Cup year, looked good when he came on in his debut, while it was a fairly even Swans unit that crushed the Lions yesterday.

ON THE CUSP: Mitch Morton booted five – this time against a stronger NEAFL opponent (Brisbane Lions) - to remain in the frame, while Jesse White was again superb. Morton sparked the Swans in last year's flag decider and could earn a reprieve based on that. Tommy Mitchell, the father-son sensation hampered by knee problems thus far, is now fit and also impressing in the reserves.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: The Swans are flying under the radar, as they do every year, but a huge test this Saturday night awaits. Can they instil more mental damage to the Hawks with another win? A testing month follows, too, with battles against the Pies, Bombers and Crows set to determine exactly where the premiers sit.

Rhyce Shaw dashes out of defence. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

WEST COAST

INJURIES
Murray Newman (knee) 3 weeks
Mark Nicoski (hamstring) 2 weeks
Sam Butler (calf) 1 week
Beau Waters (adductor) 1 week
Andrew Embley (foot) Test
Luke Shuey (calf) Test
Colledge (jaw) Available

ON THE BLOCK: It's hard to change a winning formula, but with several big names still to come back into the side over the next few weeks there are likely to be some changes. Fringe midfielder Bradd Dalziell is one of those players in the gun, as is rookie ruckman Callum Sinclair, who may be forced out by the successful return of Nic Naitanui against the Bulldogs. Will Schofield is likely to be retained despite being dropped last week, before earning a late reprieve when Beau Waters withdrew due to injury. Neither Waters or Sam Butler will be available to take on the Lions.

ON THE CUSP: Wingman Matt Rosa played his third straight WAFL match after thigh surgery and will almost certainly return against Brisbane on Saturday. Both he and Adam Selwood were among East Perth's best players. Untried midfielder Mark Hutchings continues to knock on the door following another strong performance for West Perth, as will former Collingwood forward Brad Dick after his eight-goal haul for East Fremantle. Veteran Andrew Embley faces a fitness test on his injured foot.

MICHAEL WASHBOURNE'S FORECAST: The Eagles will be looking to continue their resurgence after Sunday's huge win over the Bulldogs. Naitanui and Sharrod Wellingham both played their first games of the season and will only be better for the run. West Coast lost the corresponding fixture to the Lions up at the Gabba last year and will no doubt be quietly seeking redemption for that shock two-point defeat.

WESTERN BULLDOGS

INJURIES
Nick Lower (eye) available
Jake Stringer (corkie) available
Tom Williams (adductor) test
Ryan Griffen (shoulder) test
Daniel Giansiracusa (shoulder) test
Robert Murphy (calf) test
Brett Goodes (suspension) 1 week
Michael Talia (jaw) 3-5 weeks
Lin Jong (leg) 6 weeks
Tory Dickson (ankle) 5 weeks
Easton Wood (hamstring) TBC
Shaun Higgins (foot) season

ON THE BLOCK: All the kids tried hard, but with experience set to return some must make way this week. Speedster Jason Johannisen could be one after tracking at just 56 per cent efficiency, while Jason Tutt and Christian Howard could also be unlucky omissions.

ON THE CUSP: Plenty. The Dogs are every chance to welcome back 633 games of experience against the Roos with Robert Murphy, Ryan Griffen and Daniel Giansiracusa all likely to be available. With Brett Goodes to follow next week and a favourable month ahead, the timing bodes well for Brendan McCartney's evolving side. And while he's a while off senior footy, exciting for Dogs fans that late draft pick Josh Prudden – who Scott Wynd helped develop – is impressing in the VFL, along with midfield wrecking ball Nathan Hrovat.

SAM LANDSBERGER'S FORECAST: The Dogs were far more competitive than the 70-point margin showed against the Eagles, winning the contested footy count and inside 50s. Clay Smith played one of his best games since that sparkling four-goal debut, Jordan Roughead looks a find at full-back and Liam Jones presented well after quarter-time. With three A-graders close to returning and winnable games ahead, a big month looms for the Dogs. They enjoyed their best win of 2012 against the Roos last year – can they repeat that effort this week?

AFL football - Adelaide Crows v Western Bulldogs round 4 match at AAMI Stadium - footballer Ryan Griffen Picture: Simon Cross Source:

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Glass undecided about future

Eagle Darren Glass has eyes for the ball as he marks in defence. Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: The Sunday Times

WEST Coast skipper Darren Glass says he'll probably wait until the tail end of the season before deciding whether to play on next year.

Glass turns 32 next week but remains at the peak of his powers, highlighted by his fourth All-Australian guernsey last year.

Importantly, the key defender says his body is holding up well and would be able to handle another season at the elite level.

And with West Coast well and truly in premiership mode despite their sluggish start to the year, Glass may find it hard to walk away at season's end.

"I love my teammates. I think this is a particularly good group," Glass said.

"And to be that same group that won the wooden spoon (in 2010) and to be building - it's a nice feeling.

"I just love playing. I love competing. I love the game.

"Physically I feel good. But things change and there's still a long way to go in the year.

"I haven't really thought about (playing on) to be honest, but I would assume perhaps we would talk at the end of the year."

The Barometer: Injury latest at every club

Although Eric Mackenzie has been handed the responsibility of taking on the opposition's best forward for the past few seasons, Glass remains West Coast's most influential defender.

Glass has captained the Eagles since 2008, and will notch his 250th game for the club next week if he can escape injury in Saturday's clash with Brisbane at the Gabba.

West Coast vice-captain Beau Waters is set to miss another match due to an adductor injury, while midfielder Luke Shuey will be assessed later in the week after tweaking his calf in Sunday's win over the Bulldogs.

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Bombers sorry for drugs 'experiment'

Essendon are not expected to sack any club officials in the wake of their internal investigation into irregular practices at the club last season.

Essendon chairman David Evans speaks to the media. Picture: Jake Nowakowski Source: Herald Sun

James Hird and the Essendon Bombers are today expected to receive the key findings from the investigation into the club's alleged illegal practices. Source: Getty Images

ESSENDON chairman David Evans has apologised for a breakdown of controls that allowed an "arms race" in experimental drugs at the club.

The club today released the findings and recommendations of former Telstra boss Ziggy Switkowski's internal review into the club's governance throughout the 2012 season.

The report slammed:

* The rapid diversification into exotic supplements;

* Sharp increase in frequency of injections;

* The shift to treatment offsite in alternative medicine clinics;

* Emergence of unfamiliar suppliers; and,

* Marginalisation of traditional medical staff.

The reports says that combined, these issues created "a disturbing picture of a pharmacologically experimental environment never adequately controlled or challenged or documented within the club".

Evans said the club would now fiercely pursue a "zero tolerance" policy towards the use of supplements.

REPLAY THE BOMBERS' PRESS CONFERENCE BELOW AND CHECK BACK FOR UPDATES ALL DAY

The review did not delve into "the nature of supplements administered by EFC during this period'', but Evans said the club is becoming "more and more confident about ... the fact that there was nothing banned that was given to our players''.

"I want to apologise to our players and their families, to our members and supporters, to the AFL community, about what has happened at Essendon," Evans said.

"I want people to focus on Dr Ziggy Switkowski's first recommendation and that is that the pioneering work of supplements should be left to the Australian sports commission.

"An arms race for the most sophisticated molecules must be prohibited.

"I am deeply sorry this has happned on my watch ... I will fight to ensure there is zero tolerance to risky procedures at our club."

Full text of the Essendon report

Former sport scientist Stephen Dank and high performance manager Dean Robinson - currently stood down - were not interviewed by Dr Switkowski, but former football manager Paul Hamilton was.

Striking "at the heart'' of the report, Evans said, was the fact a letter written by club doctor Bruce Reid detailing concerns about the Bombers new supplement program under Dank and Robinson never made its way to the board, as it was intended.

Evans said "no accountabilities'' would be made until after the AFL and Australian Sports Anti Doping Authority into the supplement program is completed.

That investigation is set to take another turn this week when players begin their interviews with ASADA.

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But Evans would not guarantee the long-term safety of coach James Hird, chief executive Ian Robson and all others at the club.

"I'm not guaranteeing anything,'' Evans said.

"The club has been through a tumultuous time and there's some change that needs to occur.

"But at the moment we stand by our people at the club at the moment, we support our people, we're holding together well in what has been a very difficult time, but we've got some decisions to make and obviously the first lot of decisions that we have to make are around these recommendations which no doubt the board will adopt and execute.''

Evans was deeply apologetic for letting such a scandal develop on his watch.

"The one thing I will say about my position is that the buck does stop with me,'' he said.

"I am chairman of the board, this has happened under my watch, I was elected for a three-year term at the AGM last year and I will bring forward my re-election, I will go to an election at the earliest possible time which will be November of this year.''

Who's who: The key players in Essendon saga

Evans confirmed publicly for the first time that Reid wrote a letter intended for the club's board that never got there.

"Bruce did write a letter and one of the confusing things here is we're confused as to where that letter went,'' he said.

"Clearly that letter didn't go to who it should have and that, again, is to the core of this report that escalation of issues when they arise should go up the chain.

"It's clear in this case that that didn't happen and that's something that we'll have to deal with.''

Evans revealed the club had dobbed itself into Medicare after external doctors placed a claim for blood tests on players.

Coach James Hird said this morning players were focused on this weekend's game and said he did not know what to expect.

"I am not sure, we will have to wait and see. It (the report) is due in the next few hours and we will wait and see then," he told reporters at Windy Hill.

Essendon coach James Hird watches his players at training. Picture: Jake Nowakowski Source: Herald Sun

Dr Switkowski wouldn't comment yesterday on what percentage of the report would be revealed, nor what it would recommend.

But club great Tim Watson, the father of club captain Jobe, said no Bombers official would be told to resign.

"I don't think there's going to be recommendations for anyone to be sacked. I don't think there's going to be blood on the floor tomorrow post this meeting, if that's in fact when it takes place," Watson told Channel 7.

"I think this is about the governance, so what they're looking to do is make sure that any of the errors of judgment along the way in terms of their supplement program won't be made again."

The review of the club's governance, processes and supervision followed revelations the Bombers were embroiled in an Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority investigation into their supplements program run by sports scientist Stephen Dank.

Essendon players train at Windy Hill today. Picture: Jake Nowakowski Source: Herald Sun

The release of its findings comes as Dank continued to insist Essendon had nothing to fear.

Dank told Sydney-based media at the weekend that his correspondence with the World Anti-Doping Agency and ASADA proved he could use anti-obesity drug AOD-9604 on players because it did not contravene category S2, which lists specific substances.

But Dank was not drawn on the fact AOD-9604 was prohibited under category S0, which states substances not approved for human use are prohibited.

ASADA is this week expected to start interviewing Essendon players.

- with Matt Windley, staff writers

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Waite banned for headbutt

The future of St Kilda's Justin Koschitzke is in serious doubt after a tumultuous night against Collingwood.

Jarrad Waite wrestles with James Strauss at the MCG yesterday. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

Justin Koschitzke looks back as Jamie Elliott lies on the turf. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

ST KILDA veteran Justin Koschitzke will miss two matches for striking Collingwood's Jamie Elliott.

Koschitzke's poor record means he's stuck with the penalty ... and stuck three games short of 200 AFL games.

The AFL match review panel today hit the Saints' big man with a three-match ban, reduced by one if he pleads guilty to last Friday night's offence.

Carlton forward Jarrad Waite's long-awaited return has hit a snag with the Blue suspended for one match for headbutting Melbourne's Tom McDonald.

Yesterday's match was Waite's first senior game of the year and only his 12th since the start of last season following his battle with back and leg injuries.

The biggest umpiring calls of Round 6

Hawthorn's ace forward Lance Franklin is in the clear for his contact to Adelaide's Andy Otten.

The MRP decided Franklin's momentum took both players to the ground, an action that resulted in a 50m penalty but no charge.

North Melbourne ruckman Todd Goldstein has no case to answer from contact to Port Adelaide's Justin Westhoff and a match day report against Demon Luke Tapscott for a bump to Blue Kade Simpson was thrown out.

Geelong captain Joel Selwood was fined $1800 for wrestling and Richmond's former skipper Chris Newman is $900 out of pocket from their boundary line scuffle at the MCG on Saturday night.

What will the AFL match review panel make of Geelong captain Joel Selwood and Richmond's Chris Newman's wrestling moves

Essendon champion Matthew Lloyd says Koschitzke might have played his last AFL game.

"They probably won't win the next two games. You wonder whether they'll decide to play the kids and whether he ever plays Justin Koschitzke again," Lloyd said on Channel 9's Sunday Footy Show.

Lloyd said his former coach Kevin Sheedy might have taken a more sentimental approach with a 197-gamer and helped him reach the 200-game mark.

But he expected second-year coach Watters to be more hard-nosed.

"I'm not sure Scott Watters as a new coach would be in the same vein as Kevin Sheedy," Lloyd said.

Former Gold Coast ruckman Tom Hickey is expected to replace Koschitzke for next week's match against Carlton.

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The drugs linked to Essendon

Bombers CEO Ian Robson and Bombers coach James Hird today. Source: Getty Images

ESSENDON'S supplement program from last year is under the spotlight and has been for a long time.

There is a growing confidence at the club that its players were not injected with anything illegal.

And there is no suggestion here the following were taken by anyone at Essendon.

But there have been links, leaks and public accusations.

Here are the drugs being discussed at Essendon and an explanation of what they do.

AOD-9604 (Peptides)

The Herald Sun reported that an Essendon official told investigators the club had used the anti-obesity drug AOD-9604, under the belief it had clearance from WADA to do so.

But what is this drug? It's reported benefits are said to include increased muscle mass and increased energy.

It is seen as an extremely potent and effective fat burner.WADA say the drug, AOD-9604, falls under the category of substances that are prohibited because they have "no current approval by any governmental regulatory health authority for human therapeutic use".

Dr Catrin Goebel; Director of the Australian Sports Testing Laboratory testing for illegal drugs and peptide hormones in athletes samples at the Australian Government National Measurement Institute. Picture: James Croucher Source: Herald Sun

Peptide Thymosin beta 4

It was reported on Saturday that Stephen Dank, Essendon's former sports scientist, ordered a banned peptide in quantities sufficient to treat a team of AFL players, according to a former associate.

Records of Mr Dank's purchasing process reveal he sourced the peptide Thymosin beta 4 from Melbourne biochemist Shane Charter while working for Essendon.

Thymosin beta 4 is prohibited for athletes under anti-doping rules.

It is a peptide that assists muscle regeneration and is commonly used in racehorses.

Steve Dank on the 7.30 report. Picture: Channel 2 ( Abc) Source: Herald Sun

Hexarelin

Stephen Dank said he last year injected James Hird with Hexarelin - which WADA banned in 2004.

Hexarelin is a growth hormone and its effects are said to include an increase in strength, growth of new muscle fibers, increase in the size of already existing muscle fibers, neural protection, joint rejuvenation, protection and healing.

It is also said to give a tanning effect and there are claims it aids sleeping and libido.

It is not illegal for coaches to use it. It has been claimed Hird was twice injected with harmless and legal amino acids.

Hird reportedly took injections were taken because he was feeling sick.

Essendon coach James Hird. Picture: Jake Nowakowski Source: Herald Sun

Pig's brain extract

Dank said he injected players with extract from pig's brain used to treat Alzheimer's, the first milk from a mother cow and a bark extract.

That was enough for Essendon champion Tim Watson, the father of Jobe.

Watson Snr likened the bizarre supplements at the centre of the Bombers' drugs crisis to ingredients used by a "witch doctor".

 

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Ex-Cat, Roo on Tiger standy-by

Aaron Edwards took 16 marks for Coburg yesterday. Source: Herald Sun

FORMER Geelong ruckman Orren Stephenson and ex-North Melbourne forward Aaron Edwards could be vying to make their Richmond debuts in Saturday's AFL match against Port Adelaide.

Tigers ruck duo Ivan Maric and Tyrone Vickery both copped injuries early in the second half of last night's loss to Geelong.

Maric returned to the field after rolling an ankle but was clearly inhibited, while Vickery was left concussed and bleeding by a head clash and did not return.

"He (Vickery) was pretty dazed last night. He had a couple of stitches in his forehead," captain Trent Cotchin told Channel 7's AFL Game Day today.

"He had blood there leaking from his head and he was in a world of pain.

"He's a very tough character and hopefully he'll be able to get up for next week's game.

"Obviously Ivvy (Maric) was a little bit sore in the third quarter as well."

Cotchin said if one or both big men were unable to face the Power, Stephenson, rookie-drafted as a back-up ruckman, and Edwards, traded to the Tigers, would be in contention.

"He's been quite impressive in the Coburg (VFL) squad," Cotchin said of Edwards.

"The way he leads up to the footy with intent is fantastic and he's also worked on his defensive pressure in the forward line.

"Whether or not it's him or the big O (Stephenson), who's been playing some fantastic footy down at Coburg as well."

Cats v Tigers stats and SuperCoach points at LiveHQ

Edwards took 16 marks in Coburg's win against Essendon's VFL side yesterday and kicked two goals, taking his tally to 14 in the past three weeks.

Midfielders Shane Tuck (25 disposals) and Nathan Foley (24) will also be contention for a senior call-up.

Cotchin said his management was in talks with the Tigers about a new contract.

"There's a number of our players out of contract this season – Jack and Dusty, just to name a couple.

"It's just something that will get done in the future, whether or not it's in the next couple of weeks or in the next three months.

"It's not something I'm stressing about, to be totally honest.

"The powers that be will make that decision at the appropriate time."

And the Tigers skipper said he was below his best against the Cats, battling both a knee complaint sustained against Fremantle in the previous round and a cold.

"There's no excuses though, if you put your hand up to play you've got to perform your role for the side and I didn't," he said.

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Kosi's career 'may be over'

The future of St Kilda's Justin Koschitzke is in serious doubt after a tumultuous night against Collingwood.

Justin Koschitzke looks back as Jamie Elliott lies on the turf. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

ST KILDA veteran forward Justin Koschitzke might have played his last AFL game, says Essendon great Matthew Lloyd.

Koschitzke, 30, is expected to cop at least a two-match suspension for Friday night's elbow to the head of Collingwood's Jamie Elliott.

With the Saints fast falling out of finals contention and rejuvenating their side with youth, Lloyd said by the time Koschitzke was available to play again, the club might have moved on.

Lloyd said if the Saints lost their next two games, against Carlton and Adelaide, to fall to a 1-7 record, coach Scott Watters might decide the club is better off blooding younger forwards.

Pies v Saints stats and SuperCoach points at LiveHQ

"They probably won't win the next two games. You wonder whether they'll decide to play the kids and whether he ever plays Justin Koschitzke again," Lloyd said on Channel 9's Sunday Footy Show.

Lloyd said his former coach Kevin Sheedy might have taken a more sentimental approach with a 197-gamer and helped him reach the 200-game mark.

But he expected second-year coach Watters to be more hard-nosed.

"I'm not sure Scott Watters as a new coach would be in the same vein as Kevin Sheedy," Lloyd said.

Former Gold Coast ruckman Tom Hickey is expected to replace Koschitzke for next week's match against Carlton.

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Suns won't rush Brown back

Gold Coast hard man Campbell Brown. Picture: Michael Klein Source: Herald Sun

GOLD Coast coach Guy McKenna admits he's unlikely to rush Campbell Brown back into the Suns' line-up as the combative defender's suspension comes to an end.

Brown has been forced to sit on the sidelines for the first six rounds of the AFL season and the premiership player's aggression and experience were badly missed on Saturday against Fremantle.

The Dockers strangled the Suns to cruise to a comfortable 45-point win despite the two teams being all but level in several key statistics.

Suns v Freo stats and SuperCoach points at LiveHQ

But McKenna says his team is already carrying a few bodies who are struggling to get through a full game and to bring Brown straight back for next weekend's clash with Melbourne might be a risk too far.

"Might be a consideration but it might be a long one," McKenna said when asked about the former Hawthorn player.

"To throw another person in who might not be able to maintain AFL intensity for 120 minutes, my conservative nature says he might have to get a game somewhere else."

Another area where McKenna feels his hands are currently tied is in his selection of 2010 No.1 draft pick David Swallow in defence.

Swallow performed well against Hayden Ballantyne but there's a feeling his talents are being wasted in the backline.

McKenna says it was Swallow's teammates who needed to step up to ensure he and Dion Prestia were able to move forward.

"He's a good player and right now ... we actually need him playing close-checking, rebounding defensive work," McKenna said.

"He's clearly, along with Dion - another highly-rated midfielder - providing that for us.

"There's some others down there that should be doing that but aren't doing that."

Fremantle coach Ross Lyon is also making do with his team selection options with club captain Matthew Pavlich, ruckman Aaron Sandilands and rising star Stephen Hill all out injured.

But the Dockers sit 4-2 despite their injury concerns and Lyon was happy with how things have been going so far.

"I'll take 4-2. Could be worse, could be better," he said.

"I think it's about fair ... it's (Saturday's win) probably our first four-quarter performance."

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Crows sick of Hawks hangover

Adelaide's Scott Camporeale is sick of hearing about what the Crows did and didn't do last season. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

ADELAIDE is tiring of living off the memory of its bitter, five-point preliminary final loss to Hawthorn last September - the game labelled as showing the Crows were "a kick away from the Grand Final".

The Crows face Hawthorn tomorrow for the first time since that epic final that was supposed to spur Adelaide to another top-four finish, which now seems far away from Brenton Sanderson's group, particularly with the loss of key forward Taylor Walker with a season-ending knee injury.

Crows midfield coach Scott Camporeale today tried to dismiss the notion that Adelaide players are still living off the back-slapping tributes of 2012 when they lifted the club from 14th to second in the home-and-away series.

"To be quite honest, I'm sick of hearing about that," said Camporeale.

"Last year was last year and this club has not achieved anything. All we did last year was gain a little bit more respect back from the competition.

"Playing in the preliminary final was a bonus for us. We understand where we're at - we all have to improve.

"We haven't spoken once about the preliminary final. That's last year. We have more as a club and a team to worry about than what happened last year."

Adelaide's search for answers after a disappointing 2-3 start brought savage internal questioning at West Lakes this week.

"Just clarity," said Camporeale of the result of the frank discussions between players and coaches this week.

"Clarity in what is expected from the individual and the group."

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Hawks know what to expect

Jay Clark and Mick Warner argue over what to do with their defence ahead of Round 6.

Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson says the Hawks need to improve their clearance numbers. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

ALASTAIR Clarkson knows his Hawthorn side will confront a different looking Adelaide forward line at AAMI Stadium tomorrow.

But he expects the Crows game plan to remain the same.

Kurt Tippett is long gone and the Crows are now coming to terms with the fact Taylor Walker will miss the year with a knee injury.

The loss of opposition forwards normally creates an air of unpredictability their line-up.

But Clarkson suggested today counterpart Brenton Sanderson showed his hand at the selection table last night by selecting tall forward Shaun McKernan.

"It would have been a little bit more unpredictable if just (Jason) Porplyzia came in and they went a bit smaller,'' Clarkson said.

"But I'd expect that they'd structure up pretty similarly to what they have in the last little while.

"We've just got to make sure we defend the way we've defended all year, no matter who the opponent is.

"Walker is such a huge presence for them, but McKernan is a big boy. He and the big fella (Josh) Jenkins give them a bit more flexibility in what they do with the ruck, too.

"They can take (Sam) Jacobs forward a little bit more often than they have in the past. So we've just got to be prepared for all those things tomorrow afternoon.''

The Hawks were smashed in the clinches by North Melbourne last week.

They lost out in clearances and contested possessions as well as inside-50s but still managed to eek out a three-point win.

Clarkson said a similar result in those key areas tomorrow would not augur well for his side.

"It says something about our group that we still found a way to win but I'm not too confident that if all the stats are like that this week, that we'll get over the line against the Crows,'' he said.

"So we've got to make sure we're a bit more competitive in that area of the game.''
 

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Lamb's long wait over

Sydney younsters Brandon Jack (left) and Jed Lamb. Picture: Chris Pavlich Source: The Daily Telegraph

TWO years of injury setbacks and a nearly 500km off-season cycling odyssey in Myanmar have helped Sydney's Jed Lamb prepare for his AFL debut on Sunday.

Lamb was the Swans' first selection in the 2010 draft, which also netted premiership players Luke Parker and Alex Johnson.

The 20-year-old has had to a wait a little longer for his first AFL game, which will come against Brisbane at the SCG, but it's had nothing to do with the club's reputation for making players earn their stripes.

"It has been frustrating," Lamb said today.

"In the first year, I missed a lot because of injured hamstrings then, last year, I had shin splints. Towards the back end, I started to build some consistency, but it was a bit late."

It wasn't until the Swans started pre-season training last November that Lamb made coach John Longmire really sit up and take notice.

"That's one of the question marks you have, for young players in particular. When they go away, that's their time really to improve and to make up some ground on senior players," Longmire said.

"The challenge is (to do it) when nobody is watching, to do it by themselves.

"When he came back for his first day of pre-season, Jed was in great condition and he'd obviously worked quite hard.

"Once he'd increased his fitness in the off-season, we then got to work on his other areas of the game that he needed to improve on."

Lamb spent his holidays with reserves coach Jared Crouch on a cycling tour around Myanmar that blends young elite athletes with everyday people.

Physically, it was a great workout, but the real upside came in the form of personal development.

"That really put a perspective on footy and life in general. It really helped me with footy, during pre-season when things got tough - not to complain," Lamb said.

"Because over there, it just makes us realise we whinge about the stupidest things."

Longmire suggested the Lions were a more-potent threat than their 2-3 record implied.

"They play a bit of a similar style to Geelong. They've got some really good runners in the team and actually had more scoring shots than we have," Longmire said.

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LIVE CHAT: Round 6 AFL teams

Shane Crawford reveals his latest SuperCoach tips ahead of Round 6

Andrew Krakouer could come in for the Pies. Source: Herald Sun

TALK SuperCoach and selections in the live chat with Gilbert Gardiner and see all the Round 6 teams as they are named.

Is Andrew Krakouer back for Collingwood?

Is Jarrad Waite in at Carlton?

Who makes way at North Melbourne for Will Sierakowski?

And how does the loss of Nathan Fyfe hurt your SuperCoach team?

All will be revealed at 5:30pm - join Gilbert Gardiner right here.

 On a mobile device? Click here for a better viewing experience

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Mitchell back on Power list

Shane Crawford reveals his latest SuperCoach tips ahead of Round 6

Kane Mitchell elevated back to Port Adelaide's senior list. Picture: Reed Sarah Source: The Advertiser

PORT Adelaide today put key defender and former best and fairest Jackson Trengove on the long-term injury list and re-elevated speedy Sandover Medallist Kane Mitchell to the senior list.

Trengove is out with a broken foot and Port today lodged a surgeon's report with the AFL for him to gain permission to be on the long-term injury list. He had a screw inserted to help his healing when having surgery on Monday.

Mitchell, a mature age recruit at 23, was the obvious choice for elevation to the senior list after impressing in the first three games of the season, when he was filling in for Nick Salter, another Port player who was missing with a foot injury.

Port high performance manager Darren Burgess predicted Trengove, a joint 2011 Jack Cahill Medallist with Travis Boak, would be back within three months.

"Jackson's metatarsal fracture required surgical fixation with the insertion of a screw," Burgess said.

"He will re-commence running in approximately six weeks and we expect his full rehabilitation program to take ten weeks."

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Jack must work both ways: Hardwick

Richmond's Jack Riewoldt leaves the field after their one-point loss. to Fremantle Picture: Daniel Wilkins Source: PerthNow

RICHMOND coach Damien Hardwick says it is Jack Riewoldt's defensive game rather than his on-field attitude that needs adjusting after last week's loss to Fremantle.

Riewoldt's on-field behaviour in the one-point loss to the Dockers has been put under the spotlight, with commentator Mark Maclure labelling him a "prima donna".

But Hardwick said today his biggest concern with Riewoldt's game last week was that his defensive play was not up to the standard he expected.

"We spoke on Monday about his game and he was disappointed,'' Hardwick said.

"Offensively he is always going to have ups and downs. He played on a quality opponent, Luke McPharlin. We were disappointed with his defensive aspects of his game.

"We felt, and Jack would be the first to admit, that he didn't chase hard enough and his defensive efforts weren't to his usual standard.

"I thought he had a below standard game on the weekend and he would be the first one to agree with that.''

Hardwick said Riewoldt's passion was one of his great attributes as a player, but admitted the Tigers would like to harness it at times.

"He is a passionate individual and that's part of the reason that makes him a great player,'' Hardwick said.

"You look at most strikers across the league and within the AFL, they're passionate players.

"Travis Cloke, Buddy Franklin...all these type of players...they play with passion and Jack is no different.

"Do we want him to harness that passion at times? Of course we do...that is something he has to work on and he accepts that.''

Hardwick said the Tigers had moved on quickly from the narrow loss to the Dockers and were focused on their challenge against Geelong on Saturday night at the MCG.

"They are a formidable outfit, we are looking forward to the opportunity to play them,'' he said.

"We certainly think it will bring out our best footy and we think we are capable of getting a result.''
 

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Pittard to miss again

Power defender Jasper Pittard will miss again. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

PORT Adelaide defender Jasper Pittard will miss again this week with a hip injury.

Pittard was a late withdrawal from Port's victory over West Coast, which maintained their unbeaten streak.

But Power coach Ken Hinkley said despite five consecutive wins, Port hadn't regained respect after five barren seasons.

"I think that (respect) takes time,'' he said.

"We are in a position where we need to keep turning up each week and, as I say to the players, your behaviours, they will change your outcomes.

"And the outcome for us will be that we earn more respect if we continually turn up and play like we have been able to do so far.''

Power backman Jackson Trengove's broken foot could prompt them to elevate rookie Kane Mitchell for a second time.

Hinkley says Trengove expects to miss between eight and 10 games after having surgery on his right foot.

The key defender is likely to be placed on the long-term injury list, leaving an opening for Mitchell's return.

The West Australian recruit played in Port's initial three wins this season, having been elevated to the senior list when Nick Salter was injured.

Salter's return to fitness two weeks ago meant Mitchell, who impressed in three consecutive substitute

appearances, was forced back to the rookie list.

Hinkley said again recalling Mitchell to the senior squad was an option as Port prepare to play North Melbourne.

"It's certainly something we'll consider,'' Hinkley told reporters on Wednesday.

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'Barometer' Tex already up: Sando

Crows coach Brenton Sanderson has been amazed by Taylor Walker's positive mood since suffering his knee injury. Picture: Wayne Ludbey. Source: Herald Sun

TAYLOR "Tex" Walker's season is finished after he blew out his knee at the weekend, but he has been identified as an important asset for the Crows as they try to re-invent themselves to chase a finals spot.

Walker will not only mentor the players who will be asked to fill in for him in attack, but is is also considered an important mood changer around West Lakes.

Coach Brenton Sanderson has been heartened by how positive Walker has been since he learned his anterior cruciate ligament had been ruptured and he faced 12 months on the sidelines.

Sanderson was also firm in his position that there was no reason Walker could not come back stronger and better for a long career with the Crows.

"I must admit, I've been really amazed by 'Tex' these last couple of days," Sanderson said.

"I know he's disappointed but he's been really positive around the place already.

"He's almost our barometer ... he's the one who gets us up and I'm sure practical jokes will be at an all-time high with him on the sidelines and the energy ... he's just a character and I'm sure he's going to help us.

"He's already asked me in which way can he help the coaching group. So we'll get him doing some opposition analysis stuff when he's ready to get into that. It's a real credit to him."

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Naitanui close to AFL return

Nic Naitanui could return this weekend against the Western Bulldogs. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper. Source: PerthNow

WEST Coast coach John Worsfold says there's no limit on the number of returning players he can throw into the side this week because most are match-hardened and ready to play.

Worsfold admitted ruckman Nic Naitanui would be forced to play restricted game time if he resumes against the Western Bulldogs at Patersons Stadium on Sunday.

Naitanui will either make his long-awaited return for the Eagles or not play football at all this weekend.

Worsfold conceded Naitanui would be short of match fitness, as was Daniel Kerr after a limited pre-season, but he was adamant there was no risk in bringing back a host of other players following injuries.

Midfielders Sharrod Wellingham and Matt Rosa are likely to make their first appearances of the season, while Andrew Embley, Adam Selwood and Brad Sheppard are also likely to be available for selection.

"When we pick the side, we would weigh up who are we bringing in and where are they at and what does that mean for the team," Worsfold said.

"It would be fair to say that we wouldn't pick a team that we thought wasn't going to be fit enough to play."

Key clearance winner Matt Priddis, who was concussed in the first quarter of last Saturday's disastrous loss to Port Adelaide, must pass a CogState test before being cleared to play.

"He's looking great, feeling good. He still has to fulfil some commitments in terms of the concussion stuff," Worsfold said.

"But on what we take as indications, he's feeling good. But the doctors will put him through the wringer in that regard."

Worsfold said the club had not lowered its expectations for the season despite its 1-4 start.

"The doomsayers say 'well that's it, the season's done and dusted. You may as well wipe it'," he said.

"Our view is there's a lot of footy to play and we're pretty excited about what we can still achieve.

"We'll cop the criticism and we'll cop the advice. We haven't lived up to expectations to this point, but we're really looking forward to the challenge of stepping up to all that as the season unfolds."

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