Anytime Fitness Rocklea - 100 Senior Games for Chris Hunt

Chris Hunt has had to wait a fair while to notch up his 100th Senior Game for the Western Magpies, stranded on 99 since 2017 when he was struck down by persistent injury.

Hunty was one of the first player selected from 2013-2017 and its a credit to him that he’s fought his way back . Last year he played Reserves for most of the year to be one of the leading players in the Pies rise to the semi-finals.

Chris started his football in Cairns before travelling to Brisbane to complete his secondary education at St Peters Lutheran College at Indooroopilly and he played in the QLD U15 side with fellow Magpie Gerard Moore

He joined the Magpies in 2009 and played under Des Lashman in the Colts heartbreaking 1 point loss to Morningside in the Grand Final at Coorparoo.—no-side had got near the Panthers that year and the Pies almost caused the upset of the season!!  Chris played at CHB that day and was the Pies best player in the Grand Final. He also played 6 Senior games for the Magpies in 2009 when they played in the Velocity Sports Cup State League.

He was recruited by Morningside for one season in 2012 to try his luck at NEAFL level. This decision ultimately cost him a chance to play in the Magpies 2012 premiership victory over Palm Beach-Currumbin. He saw the light and returned to the Pies in 2013 and has been a fixture ever since. He has had his issues with injury over the journey so it has taken some time to reach his 100 game milestone.

He was runner up to Ben-Jaenke-Cain in the 2014 Bill Peirce Medal after a consistent season in defence.

Hunty is renowned for his clean ball handling skills and reading of the play. His decision making is also excellent, capped off by a very penetrating kick. He is equally good against tall or short---his closing speed is exceptional so he can close down smaller opponents or get to a marking contest. His judgement is also a highlight--he just makes the right decision on when to punch or mark.  Across half back he can turn defence into attack and despite reaching veteran status, still has plenty of pace.

Hunty is also just a good bloke to have a round a footy club. He brings a sense of calm when needed and his presence at the Magpies has been the club’s gain. He never whinges and he happily played in Reserves for most of last year when he may have thought he was worth a Senior game--no complaints from Hunty!! All up he has played 153 matches for the Pies—99 Seniors, 38 Reserves and 16 Colts matches in his 10 years at the club, and also thrown in a few for the Woodies in the past 2 years due to work commitments not allowing him to play on a Saturday

So from all at the Magpies heartiest congratulations to Chris on a well deserved  if albeit belated milestone of 100 Senior games for the Magpies!

Place Preview - QAFL Round 9 - Crunch match for Magpies

The Western Magpies welcome back 2018 Bill Peirce Medallist Ryan Harwood for his first match of the season and it could not come at a better time as the Pies face a season defining crunch match against a Labrador team in a similar position. 

Unlike most competitions, there are no easy matches in the QAFL and at the half way mark of the season this match shapes as he classic ‘8 point game’ for both teams. 6 v 8 may not raise the eyebrows of those not in the know but this will be a top class affair with so much on the line. 

Also in are promising young ruckman Samson Ryan, who impressed on debut a fortnight ago and "almost a veteran" in Chris Hunt, whose consistent Reserves form earned him a long awaited recall to the Seniors after over a season since his last appearance in the top grade.

Drew Mitchell and another promising youngster in Riley Greene both miss with injury and Jack Austin misses with a 1 match suspension after being reported for what appeared a solid ball and all tackle last week.

The Pies have re-gathered themselves after a disappointing loss last week and training has lifted in intensity this week and coach Brydan Morgan has been pleased with the attitude of his charges, many of whom have put in extra preparation during the week to make sure that are ready to bounce back to the winner's list.

Claye Beams had has best game for the Pies last week and with good mate Harwood back in expect him to lift further. it may take a few more weeks but these two will become a dynamic duo in coming weeks for the Pies. 

Samson Ryan gives the Pies a lift in ruck as the lion-hearted but undersized Liam Dwyer has battled gamely against bigger opponents and will welcome a partner to share the load. 

Will Fletcher has been solid on the ball and Dan Edwards has been one of the most consistent players this season. The 18 yo Edwards and somewhat older Gareth Crawford have been excellent for the Pies this year and both will be called on again on the large Labrador oval to win the midfield ball and drive the Pies forward.

Jayden Gallagher and Luca Winton held the fort last week in the backline and will welcome Aaron Highlands back to the key CHF post.

The Pies struggled up forward last week and will be looking for quicker ball into the forward line to provide space for Brody Lumber and Jack Goodall to lead to and use their height in one-on-one contests.  

The Pies up-tempo training  this week indicates they are up for the challenge and expect a ferocious response after last week. The Pies record at Labrador is pretty good and a win will put the Pies back on course at the half way mark of the season. 

QAFL Round 9: Western Magpies v Labrador at Labrador on Saturday, June 1st at 2.00 pm. 

B: Jayden Gallagher   Luca Winton  Ethan Sivijs

HB: Luke Mitchell  Aaron Highlands Claye Beams

C: Ben Jaenke-Cain Will Fletcher   Dan Edwards

HF:  Lachie Dennis Jack Goodall (Capt)  Kale Reed 

F:  Brenton Saunders Brody Lumber   Ryan Harwood

Rucks:  Samson Ryan

             Gareth Crawford 

Rover:   Riley Easton

Int: Liam Dwyer, Chris Hunt, Macauley Lonergan,  Cade Scott

In: Ryan Harwood, Chris Hunt, Samson Ryan

Out: Drew Mitchell, Riley Greene (both injured), Jack Austin (suspended) 

Sci Fleet Taringa - Reserves Round 9 Preview

RESERVES IN CRUCIAL MATCH AGAINST TIGERS

Like their Senior counterparts, the Western Magpies Reserves will be keen to bounce back after a disappointing loss last week.

In a crucial match for the Pies finals' aspirations, they welcome back youngsters in Sam Hartog, Mitchell O'Dea and Aiden D'Roza and also new player in Ky Anderson, a solid midfielder who has been the Woodsmen's best player in the past 2 matches after arriving at the club 5 weeks ago and finding his feet at his new club. His form in recent weeks has been outstanding and he should do well at this level. Hartog has been hampered by injury, but we know he can play as he was in the seniors for a number of matches last year. 

On the debit side the Pies lose the experienced Gerard Moore due to work commitments although he will bolster the Woodsmen on Friday night --he was likely in serious consideration for a Senior recall but instead will continue to build match fitness in the QFA competition where the standard continues to rise.

Chris Hunt gets a well deserved Senior recall while Monty Vine misses through suspension.

In the past few weeks  youngsters in Jordan Bonney, Charlie Thorpe, Hamish Campbell have been consistent performers, while first gamer last week Jacob Aurisch had a solid performance . Rory Johnson is enjoying a fine season and Zane Lovell will be better for the run last week after missing a few weeks with injury.

Redlands listed Harrison Kerr will also be better for his run last week after a long injury lay-off and Jesse Hampel  will hope for more forward opportunities to use his pace and height to advantage.

The Magpies are 3-4 win-loss as are their opponents so this shapes as a crucial mid-season match. 

The Pies attitude was also good this week so they will be enthused for the challenge on Saturday. 

QAFL Round 9: Western Magpies Reserves v Labrador at Labrador on Saturday, June 1st at 11.30 am. 

B: Aiden D'Roza Finn Collison  Sam Hartog

HB:  Zac Collison  Harry Marshall  Hamish Campbell

C: Mitchell O'Dea   Jordan Bonney Charlie Thorpe

HF:  Jacob Aurisch  Matt Mazarolle  Chris Jenkins 

F:  Harrison Kerr Jesse Hampel Deng Arok

Rucks:  Gabe McKinnon

             Rory Johnson

Rover:   Zane Lovell

Int: Harrison Radcliffe, Peter Kilroy, Ky Anderson, Isaac Bongaarts 

Emerg: Sean McEvoy 

Harvey Norman Oxley - Colts Round 9 Preview

KEY OUTS AS COLTS FACE DANGER GAME

The Western Magpies Colts welcome back premiership skipper Noah Resuggan for their all important clash with Labrador on Saturday morning.  Resuggan returns after missing a month with injury and will be joined by strong defender Lachlan Pearson, tall forward Coleman Cornford  and speedy winger Ritti Batilimoyo.

On the debit side the Pies will be missing several key players in Jack Briskey, Sam Mehari, Ethan Mooney and Jonty MacDougall. The Pies are 3 and 4 on the win-loss ledger and clinging to fifth on the ladder with Labrador one game behind them and with recent good form. The Pies won the round 2 encounter comfortably but will need to be on guard in this match, especially on the big Labrador ground.

Other key players for the Pies will be key forwards Jackson Paynter and Cam Ferguson and key defenders Whitlam Bishop and Lawson Campbell, all who have been in good form this year. Paynter in particular was a shining light last week and matched the physicality of Morningside and will need to lead the Pies once again

Brodie Gardner had a good game on the wing and Rory Edwards has been consistent this year.

The Pies will need to bring their A game from the first bounce if they are to return to the winners list and stay well placed in the five.  

QAFL Round 9: Western Magpies Colts v Labrador at Labrador on Saturday, June 1st at 9.30 am

B: Tyler Bobin  Lawson Campbell  Lachlan Pearson

HB: Tom Evans  Whitlam Bishop  Jack Spry                                           

C:  Ritti Batilimoyo   Rory Edwards Brodie Gardner

HF:   Morgan Smith Jackson  Paynter  Cooper Crowell

F:  Coleman Cornford Cam Ferguson  Noah Resuggan

Rucks:  Lachlan Davies

             Darcy Prest

Rover:  Abu Kante  

Int:   Claydes Doyle, Xavier Jeffrey

McCarthy Homes Mach Reviews - Morningside return the favour in tough weekend for Magpies

Only late in the 2018 Season the Magpies traveled to Morningside taking a clean sweep in all 3 grades, including a dominant 100 point victory in the senior game. Less than 10 rounds later and the Panthers turned up at McCarthy Homes Oval and returned the favour with strong wins in all 3 grades on what was a fantastic day for football. It was Sir Doug Nicholls Round, and the Magpies donned their custom guernsey for the occasion, the field was prepared wonderfully, there was a big crowd and the match had a fantastic prelude with a traditional ‘Welcome to Country” from Shannon Ruska and a great smoking ceremony, arranged and hosted by the Magpies own Wil Ivinson.

Senior Report

It is not often that the Western Magpies are out-tackled and out-muscled but that was the case in Sunday's QAFL Indigenous Round clash with Morningside before a healthy crowd at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer.

With a good number of past players in attendance the Pies started well enough and it was a tough opening quarter with the first goal of the match not coming until time on in the first quarter. In perfect football conditions it was a war of attrition for the first half but the signs were ominous for the Pies as they found it hard to clear the ball from the contest and  were blanketed up forward.

However despite their poor first half showing, the Magpies found themselves just 13 points down at the main break and every chance to turn their fortunes around with a big 2nd half effort.

Sadly it never came and inaccuracy in front of goal by Morningside was the saving grace for the Pies but with only 3 goals by three quarter time in perfect conditions it was only the most optimistic of Magpie supporters who thought the home team could all of a sudden kick 5 goals to snatch a last gasp win. And so it came to pass but in reverse as the Panthers put an exclamation mark on their dominance to totally control the last quarter to inflict an emphatic 52 point defeat on the Pies, winning 11.22-88 to 5.6-36.

The Magpies matched the intensity of the Panthers for a quarter and a half but were out-hunted by the Panther pack after that and everytime the Pies won a close in ball they were harassed and tackled and this resulted in some rushed disposals and turnovers the further the match progressed.

The Magpies also found it hard to penetrate the Morningside defensive wall and probably tried to pick their way through  with handball and short passes but skill errors often occurred  due the relentless pressure and they were back on the defensive very quickly.

The loss puts the Pies at 2-5 and a game outside the top five with a crucial encounter on Saturday at Labrador.

Youngsters Jayden Gallagher, Dan Edwards and Riley Greene were shining lights – defender  Gallagher worked hard to stem the tide in his best game for the Pies and his long clearing kicks were a highlight of his game;  Edwards  was a bright light with his pace  breaking the lines while Greene also worked hard down back and then when moved forward led well to give the Pies a target. Luca Winton also worked overtime in defence, Claye Beams had his best game to date and Will Fletcher was possibly the only Pies midfielder not to lower his colours on the day.

The Pies will be looking for the return of several key players in coming weeks and need t stay in touch with a win this week vs Labrador.

Magpies 0.2 - 2 | 2.4 - 16 | 3.5 - 23 | 5.6 - 36

Panthers 2.6 - 18 | 3.11 - 29 | 5.16 - 46 | 11.22 - 88

Best: Gallagher, Edwards, Greene, Winton, Beams, Fletcher

Goals: Dennis, Austin, Edwards, Highlands, Beams

RESERVES REPORT

The Western Magpies Reserves were well beaten by a strong Morningside team on Sunday. The Pies, comprising a majority of teenagers with a smattering of old hands were competitive until halftime but the bigger bodies and greater experience of a Morningside team with a large contingent of experienced players began to exert their influence after halftime to overrun a tiring Magpies team.

The first quarter was a high quality Reserves match but in warm weather the Magpies struggled to match it with the Panthers the longer the game went on and the standard did slip a bit later in the match.

The Magpies were outscored 9 goals to 1 goal after half time to go down 14.16-100 to 3.14-32, though inaccuracy also cost the Pies any ability to exert scoreboard pressure.

The first quarter looked reasonable for the Magpies with the first goal straight up with a centre clearance and pass to the leading Jesse Hampel followed by the first goal of the match promising much but this was possibly the highlight of the Magpies’ afternoon.

Best players were rover Rory Johnson who won plenty of contested football, the experienced onballer Chris Hunt and ruckman Gerard Moore were both tireless around the ground, consistent defender Zac Collison, who tried hard to hold the defence together, young centreman Jordan Bonney ran all day and Colts aged player Jacob Aurisch was impressive in his Reserves debut.

Such is the injury crisis at the Pies, coach Kiran Verma again had to suit up to get the Pies to 21 for the game, putting them behind the 8ball from the start.

The Pies have a big challenge this Saturday as Labrador appear to have improved from their round 2 encounter so this is another crucial match.

Magpies 1.1 - 7 | 2.8 - 20 | 2.11 - 23 | 3.14 - 32

Panthers 2.5 - 17 | 5.7 - 37 | 8.12 - 60 | 14.16 - 100

Best: Johnson, Hunt, Z.Collison, Moore, Bonney, Aurisch

COLTS REPORT

It was a costly slow start for the Magpies as they were well beaten by Morningside on Sunday but the tone of the match was set early with the Panthers booting the first 4 goals of the match before the Pies had turned the ignition key.

From then on it was catch up football and the further the match went the Pies slipped further behind to go down by 63 points, 14.9-93 to 3.11-29. The Pies lifted their intensity in the second and third quarters and matched the panthers but could not exert scoreboard pressure and were made to pay for missed opportunities as the Panthers  were more productive when they went forward.

The Magpies were well beaten in the final quarter as the effort in trying to catch up in the warm conditions took their toll.

Best player was the smallest in Sam Mehari who buzzed around and tried to lift the Pies, while Jackson Paynter impressed, firstly at CHF then in the ruck. His high leaping  at the ruck contest was a highlight and he looks a likely type for the Magpies. The consistent Whitlam Bishop and Lawson Campbell had their work cut out  across half back and they repelled Morningside on numerous occasions while midfielders Brodie Gardner and Rory Edwards worked hard around ground.

The young Magpies will want to return to the winners list against a now dangerous Labrador on the coast on Saturday

Best: Mehari, Paynter, Campbell, Bishop, Gardner, Edwards

Goals: Crowell, Briskey, Ferguson

Sir Doug Nicholls Round @ The Magpies

The Magpies host Morningside at home on Sunday 26 May to celebrate Sir Doug Nicholls Round in what promises to be a fantastic community event!

The Senior game will be preceded by a “Welcome to Country” from the traditional custodian of the land Uncle Des Sandy and then the players, umpires and coaches will take part in a traditional ‘Smoking Ceremony” conducted by Greg Duncan, also a traditional custodian.

The Magpie Senior side will wear special one-off guernseys based on original art created by artist Jarred Lawton and commissioned by current player Chris Hunt.

The meaning of the art is nicely presented inside the neck of the guernsey with the following:

Culture: The centerpiece with the Magpie is surrounded by the yellow golden dots represents the sun rising, the magpies proud singing in the mornings is to remind the people of their important role in creation. The mining town of Coolgardie means "magpie" in the Goldfields Aboriginal dialect.  The yellow dotted circle is used to indicate the meeting place were our ancestors got together. Around the outside there is U shape symbols represent women and men meeting together.

Honour: The black and white dotted design represents the Western Magpies Powenyenna Oval. The footprints walking towards the field represent the fans, friends and family coming to watch the Magpies. Footprints coming from the left and right

Emotion and connection: The four black single feathers represent our ancestors, even though they are gone we are ready to take on the responsibility of sharing culture in some way or form. The Magpies position is that it is about to take flight, it is painted this way is to represent the teachings passed down to us and what we take with us.

Journey and respect: The white curvy patterns with diagonal lines crossing on the inside coming from the left and right side of the design to the yellow dotted circle are the billabongs where our generations before us shared their stories, educated their young, fed our people and raised our people. An important part of culture is respecting those past, present and emerging.

The host MC will be Magpie stalwart Wil Ivinson, a man of immense integrity and history with the Pies and in keeping with the day he has both Aboriginal and Islander blood with his mother from the Wakka Wakka tribe whose traditional lands were from just north of Brisbane up to the Gayndah area and his father also having both Aboriginal and Islander heritage with his ancestors from the Murrinh Patha tribe from near Wadeye in the NT and from Mer Island (Murray Is)  in the Torres Strait.  ‘Tracker’ as he is often known has played for the Magpies since the late 90’s and as recently as 2014, has coached Colts to Premierships, been a long term trainer for various senior sides (and AFL clubs as well) and is a current junior coach at the club.

The Australian Rules Football community celebrates the Sir Doug Nicholls Round this weekend across the country. Nicholls was a pioneering indigenous player who played in the 1930s and was somewhjat of a trail blazer but he suffered racial vilification playing football. He was a great Austrlaian and was the Governor of South Australia in the 1970s, AFL clubs have embraced this round in spectacular fashion with the wonderful Dreamtime at the G a headline cultural event, not just a game of footy. It must also be said that the guernsey designs and the stories behind them are also a wonderful part of the weekend.

The Magpies home ground has also been prepared beautifully for the occasion thanks to our winderful band of volunteers who prepare the surface week in week out, all former players in Des Adams, Lindsay Jefferson, Rob Lawson, Bruce O’Neill, Greg Adams and Kevin Kluver.

It’s not just the senior games celebrating the round either, with the Magpie juniors hosting games on Saturday with some fantastic celebrations.

Yeronga & Sherwood U11’s

Former champion player and Best & Fairest winner Dean Parkin is also doing wonderful things for Sir Doug Nicholls Round, attending the Dreamtime at the G game with club legend Chris Mihalopoulous.

Parkin is heavily involved in the Uluru Statement from the Heart and its call for a first nations voice in the constitution. Dean is a Quandamookam man from Minjerribah (aka North Stradbroke Island) and represented the Magpies with distinction in the early 2000’s. An article on his efforts featured in the Australian Financial Review on Thursday.

Place Preview QAFL Round 8 - Key Inclusions Bolster Pies for Sir Doug Nicholls Round

The Western Magpies have made several key inclusions for their crucial QAFL Round 8 clash against Morningside at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Sunday. 

In the QAFL Sir Doug Nicholls Round (Indigenous Round) the Pies welcome back key playmakers Claye Beams, Riley Easton, Luke Mitchell and Ben Jaenke-Cain. Beams has yet to hit his straps as yet but after an early season thigh injury restricted his mobility he has returned to full fitness and is ready to put his stamp on a big game for the Pies.

Easton will lift the midfield intensity and Mitchell impressed with his clean ball skills a fortnight ago after missing 7 weeks with injury then out last week with work commitments. 

Out are Samson Ryan who joins the Allies for the Australian Under 18 Championships and Jesse Hampel, Rory Johnson and Harry Marshall to the Reserves after all did well in their Senior stints. 

Brody Lumber will be better for the run last week after missing for 3 weeks and is finally settled into Brisbane and training regularly, which will only help his form. With Jack Austin and Jack Goodall in good form present a strong tall forward line which should trouble the Morningside defence. Drew Mitchell returned to form in the past 2 matches and Gareth Crawford was again a workhorse in the middle of the ground and will be called on again to win the contested ball. 

Aaron Highlands has been selected at CHB but could also shift forward if needed and Beams off a back flank could be a key launching pad for the Pies. Luca Winton does not play a bad game and Riley Greene has been a consistent performer and shows maturity beyond his 17 years. 

This is a crucial match for the Pies as they will want to stay in touch with the double chance and be in a position to push for a top two finish when they get back to full strength in the latter half of the season

 QAFL Round 8: Western Magpies v Morningside at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Sunday,  May 26th at 2.00 pm 

B: Jayden Gallagher Luca Winton  Riley Greene

HB:  Claye Beams Aaron Highlands  Brenton Saunders

C: Macauley Lonergan Drew Mitchell  Dan Edwards

HF:  Lachie Dennis Brody Lumber Kale Reed 

F: Luke Mitchell Jack Goodall (Capt) Jack Austin

Rucks:  Liam Dwyer

             Will Fletcher

Rover:   Riley Easton

Int: Gareth Crawford, Ethan Sivijs, Ben Jaenke-Cain, Cade Scott

Sci Fleet Taringa - Reserves Round 8 Preview

EIGHT CHANGES BOLSTER RESERVES

Coach Kiran Verma has been able to bolster his side with eight inclusions for the Reserves clash with Morningside on Sunday

The Pies suffered a large defeat last week at a hands of a red hot Palm Beach outfit, but this side looks stronger physically and also with added football nous and experience.

Key inclusions  are the trio returning from the Senior side after performing well at Senior level, but forced out by returning regular senior players.

Jesse Hampel is still in the top three leading goal kickers despite limited games and will make a big difference up forward as will the inclusion of Redlands aligned Harrison Kerr, who comes back in after  missing over a month with a hand injury.

Also back in are key defender Harry Marshall and midfielder/forward Rory Johnson both having good seasons this year.

Other key inclusions are Premiership ruckman Gerard Moore and midfielder/defender Chris Hunt, who both add physical strength and footy smarts to the side, invaluable commodities in an otherwise relatively young side. 

The Pies will be keen to put last week out of their minds and there is no better way than put in a good performance and defeat a finals rival in the process.

QAFL Round 8: Western Magpies Reserves v Morningside (Indigenous Round) at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer on Sunday,  May 26th at 11.30 am.

B:  Aiden D'Roza  Gabe McKinnon Hamish Campbell  

HB:  Peter Kilroy Harry Marshall  Zac Collison

C: Charlie Thorpe Jordan Bonney Lawson Campbell

HF:  Finn Collison Matthew Mazarolle Chris Jenkins

F:  Rory Johnson Jesse Hampel  Harrison Kerr 

Ruck:  Gerard Moore

           Chris Hunt

Rover: Zane Lovell

Int: Sean McEvoy, Deng Arok,  Monty Vine , Harrison Radcliffe  

Harvey Norman - Colts Round 8 Match Preview

COLTS BOLSTERED FOR BIG CLASH

The Western Magpies Colts have been bolstered by three key inclusions for their all important clash with traditional rival Morningside at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer on Sunday morning.

The Pies sit 3-3  this season and are fourth on the ladder with the Siders gaining momentum after a slow start to the season, with 2 wins on the trot and sit in sixth place on the ladder.  

Into the team comes tall key position player Jack Briskey with Darcy Prest and Jonty MacDougall to add some zip around the packs and across half forward. Out go solidly built ruck rover Jacob Aurisch, nippy winger Ritti Batilimoyo and back pocket Lachlan Pearson, all injured or unavailable.

This is  match the Pies must win as it will put them 2 games clear of the Panthers and entrench themselves in the five.

It is a good opportunity to get one back on a long time rival and put a dent in Morningside’s finals chances as well. 

Coach Dallas Gallagher with stress to his young Magpies the need to be switched on from the first bounce to get on top early and then control proceedings.

QAFL Round 8: Western Magpies Colts v Morningside at McCarthy Homes Oval, Chelmer  on Sunday, May 26th at 9.30 am

B: Tyler Bobin Tom Evans Jack Spry

HB: Oscar Murphy   Whitlam Bishop  Lawson Campbell

C:  Ethan Mooney  Rory Edwards Brodie Gardner

HF:  Abu Kante  Jackson  Paynter  Jack Briskey

F:  Darcy Prest Cam Ferguson  Cooper Crowell

Rucks:  Lachlan Davies

             Sam Mehari

Rover:  Jonty MacDougall

Int:  Morgan Smith, Anthony Caprioli, Claydes Doyle, Calsey Robinson

McCarthy Homes Match Review - Baby Pies challeng Premiers

On a day that had some warning bells ringing up against the undefeated Lions on their home ground, the under -manned Magpies missing up to 10 first choice players had to stand up and despite the final scoreline, the young Magpies did exactly that. A 43 point loss at face value looks like a bit of a thumping but the Magpies played determined football throughout and matched their opponents in most places on the ground but the Lions were more efficient going forward, particularly through star ex Fremantle & Collingwood forward Jack Anthony

The Pies featured 9 teenagers plus several other youngsters with less than 10 games to their name, but were not overawed and gave the undefeated Lions a solid workout. The Magpies took no backward steps and showed the club that the future and development is underway and will continue to see the club successful.

It is high praise for the performance and character of the Western Magpies from the  opposition coach Jess Sinclair who conceded

"the Magpies controlled the game most of the time but just could not apply scoreboard pressure.

In a frank assessment Sinclair said it was the first time this season his side had been ‘beaten up around the football’.

“We had some nice ball movement at times but I think they controlled the game most of the day and the scoreline probably flattered us a little bit"

The early clinches saw the Lions on top  and the scoreboard did not take long to start ticking over for the Lions and their star forward John Anthony certainly left a mark and it could said his 6 goal performance was the difference on the day. The Lions are a well drilled side but credit must go to the young first gamers for the Magpies who can be very proud of their first senior games for the club.

Teenage ruckman Samson Ryan did a great job in the ruck and exceeded expectations with an outstanding performance on the day in his senior debut, that confidence and performance certainly did not go unmatched by efforts of 17-year-old Cade Scott who also had an outstanding debut in the midfield and upforward, and despite his light frame the youngster was not afraid to throw his weight around in the clinches.

19 year old Jack Austin met the challenge set for the young forward and proved a great focal point in the forward line to boot 3 goals and he was well supported up forward by key forward Brody Lumber with 3 goals and around ground by Aaron Highlands, Drew Mitchell, Luca Winton and Jack Goodall .

We’re not in the business of celebrating losses, but the performance is one that sets a minimum benchmark for effort, a challenge was well and truly put on the table and the undermanned young Pies certainly bought a strong team performance that can set an standard for the remainder of the season.

However, a loss was not what the doctor ordered and the Magpies show up to every game expecting a win, so will be looking to getting players back and continue to build for the remainder of the season with the knowledge that the young Pies are up to the mark. The Magpies take on another close foe in Morningside at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer on Sunday in the club’s Indigenous Round and will wear a custom guernsey designed from original artwork commissioned by Chris Hunt in conjunction with Aaron Maricic and club stalwart Wil Ivinson. This is shaping as a season defining match which the Magpies must win to remain in touch with the five.

Palm Beach Currumbin Lions 7.1 - 43 | 9.8 - 62 | 14.11 - 95 | 16.14 - 110

defeated

Western Magpies 3.2 - 20 | 4.2 26 | 7.4 - 46 | 10.7 - 67

Best: Ryan, Winton, Goodall, Austin, D.Mitchell, Highlands

Goals: Lumber, Austin 3, Edwards, Highlands, Lonergan, Reed 1

Arabon Financial - Reserves Round 7 Review

An undermanned Western Magpies Reserves were no match for the ladder leading Palm Beach Currumbin side on Saturday. Due to extensive injury and unavailability in the Senior side, several top line Reserves players were given well deserved opportunities in the Senior game leaving the Reserves slightly depleted despite the inclusion of several top line Colts players.

Some late NEAFL call-ups resulted in more ‘uphill’ flow, leaving the Magpies with just 18 players, resulting in a couple of Colts backing up and coach Kiran Verma also suiting up despite having played the previous evening.

In contrast, the Lions side were up and about on their home deck in front of a Premiership reunion crowd and featured many quality players with senior experience displaying a depth that would be the envy of many clubs, and many Lions were quick to point out that until this point in the year, their senior side had enjoyed minimal injury interruption allowing their Reserves to settle into a cohesive unit.

A cohesive unit they were, running out 106 point winners after a 10 goal to nothing first half. The Magpies did compete well around the ball, and the inside 50 count was likely not as the scoreline suggests, but the young Pies outfit had no answer to the experienced forwards of Palm Beach who took full advantage of quality forward entries.

The Pies best performers were 16 year old Jack Briskey who again showed he has a big future despite the scoreline, while 3 other teenagers in the midfield worked hard to stem the tide in Jordan Bonney, Zane Lovell and Chris Jenkins.

Special mention also to Lawson Campbell and Luke Beetham who backed up from the Colts for their 2nd match of the day.

Lions 6.6 - 42 | 10.9 - 69 | 15.11 - 101 | 21.17 - 143

defeated

Magpies 0.1 - 1 | 0.5 - 5 | 4.6 - 30 | 5. 7 - 37

Best: Briskey, Jenkins, Vine, Bonney, Lovell, McDougall

Goals: Not recorded

Anytime Fitness - Colts Round 7 Match Review

An inexperienced Colts outfit took on the undefeated Palm Beach side down at Salk Oval and gave a good account of themselves against a side featuring more than 10 players in their 2nd season of Colts footy and several with senior footy experience. The Magpies had just 5 players returning from the 2018 squad with 3 from the victorious Premiership side.

However, it was a good measuring stick for the young side to see what it takes against a high quality opponent and the Colts fell well short on the scoreboard, but provided plenty of effort.

It was a bright opening as the Pies were just 1 goal down at 1/4 time, however the Lions got well on top in the 2nd quarter with 11 scoring shots to 2, with inaccuracy keeping the score respectable and the Pies in with a sniff. However a strong 2nd half saw the Lions turn a 30 point half time lead into a solid 47 point win to remain on top of the ladder.

Among the best players were Jackson Paynter giving a strong account of himself in the air, Brodie Gardner on the wing and no surprised Lawson Campbell, Whitlam Bishop and Jack Spry had plenty of work to do in defence to be named in the Pies best.

The Pies can bounce back this week against Morningside with several key players expected to return in what shapes as an important match for the Colts who currently sit at 3-3 and in contention for Top 3 and the double chance.

Lions 3.2 - 20 | 7. 9 - 51 | 9.13 - 67 | 12.16 - 88

defeated

Magpies 2.2 - 14 | 3.3 - 21 | 4.4 - 28 | 6.5 - 41

Best: Paynter, Gardner, Campbell, Davies, Bishop, Spry

Place Preview - Baby Pies Take on Unbeaten Premiers in Big Test

The Western Magpies selectors have again had to make several changes to the make-up of their team to take on the rampaging and  undefeated defending QAFL premiers Palm Beach-Currumbin on their home turf in QAFL Round 7 action on Saturday. 

Besides a couple of ageing warriors in Gareth Crawford and Drew Mitchell (apologies to Drew!!), the Pies side is very youthful and they will hold no fear of the Lions on Saturday.

AFLQ talks up the rivalries in the QAFL but the Pies v Lions is as good as any of them  as they developed a fierce rivalry over a fifteen year period from 2004 onwards when they met in many finals clashes and in three grand finals for a 2-1 result to the Pies. There was never any love lost between the teams and the Pies premiership wins in 2008 and 2012 over the Lions live long in  the memories of many a rusted on Pies supporter.

The Pies lose Claye Beams, Ben Jaenke-Cain and Luke Mitchell to unavailability and Riley Easton to injury. 

In exciting news in comes classy young ruckman Samson Ryan for his senior debut, whose ruck work harks back to the days of the tap ruck men of yore  who directed the ball to the chest of their rovers. Ryan has been on Brisbane Lions Academy duties in the first half of the season.

17 year old Cade Scott also comes in for his senior debut after impressive pre-season form and a solid first 5 rounds of Reserves footy to earn his chance and Jesse Hampel makes it a trio of debutants when he comes in after excellent reserves footy with consecutive bags of 5 goals and he found his feet after 4 years away from the game.

Despite the ageing warrior epitaph, Crawford and Mitchell were instrumental in the Pies comeback against Sandgate a fortnight ago and both are playing with plenty of vim and vigour, with Crawford showing no signs of slowing down, adding plenty of zip to the midfield with his pace and agility at stoppages.

In other good news Brody Lumber returns to the key forward position after missing due to unavailability Rory Johnson comes in after good Reserves form to add pace around the goals.

The young Pies will attack this match with nothing to lose and with the Magpies having a good record at the Salk Oval, coach Brydan Morgan will stress to his charges that this can be a season defining match and to leave nothing in the tank by the match's end. 

QAFL Round 7: Western Magpies v Palm Beach-Currumbin at Salk Oval, Currumbin   on Saturday, May 18th at 2.00 pm

B: Jayden Gallagher Harry Marshall  Riley Greene

HB:  Luca Winton  Jack Goodall  Brenton Saunders

C: Macauley Lonergan Drew Mitchell  Dan Edwards

HF:  Lachie Dennis Aaron Highlands Kale Reed 

F: Brody Lumber Jesse Hampel Jack Austin

Rucks:  Liam Dwyer

             Will Fletcher

Rover:   Cade Scott

Int: Samson Ryan, Gareth Crawford, Ethan Sivijs, Rory Johnson

Emerg: Bruce Reville, Joel Workman, Zach Collison

Sci-Fleet - Reserves Round 7 Preview

RESERVES FACE TEST AGAINST UNBEATEN LIONS

The Western Magpies Reserves face a stern test as they take on the unbeaten Palm Beach-Currumbin at Currumbin on Saturday. 

The Pies are missing key players with injury or unavailability and are also a young team except for ageing warriors Peter Kilroy,  Gabe McKinnon and Sean McEvoy. Also joined by Ben Jaenke-Cain for this match as he is unavailable in the 2pm timeslot due to work. Kilroy and McKinnon have found the elixir of youth and are among the best players  this year, Jaenke-Cain played his best match a fortnight ago in the senior game and McEvoy is regaining touch after  a delayed start to the season and he is 3 matches shy of 200 matches for the club in what has been a magnificent career for the Pies over the past 15 seasons. All the other players are quite young with an average age of 20 and they will be keen to inflict the Lions first defeat.

The Pies will miss the class and experience of Chris Hunt, who is unavailable, but welcome the high flying youngster in Jack Briskey to the forward line. 

The key to victory will be the midfield battles and Jaenke-Cain, the strong bodied Jordan Bonney and the returning Zane Lovell will be keys for this and if the ball can get down quickly to a strong forward line, the Pies can kick a winning score.

Down back, youngster Hamish Campbell has been a revelation with strong marking at centre half back and Zac Collison has been the Pies best player this year in the last line of defence. 

The Pies will need to bring their A game to knock off the Lions on their home turf but coach Kiran Verma will have his side up for the challenge.

QAFL Round 7: Western Magpies Reserves v Palm Beach-Currumbin at Salk Oval, Currumbin  on Saturday, May 18th at 11.30 am

B:  Sean McEvoy  Harrison Radcliffe Zac Collison  

HB:  Peter Kilroy Hamish Campbell, Isaac Bongaarts

C: Charlie Thorpe Jordan Bonney Mitchell O'Dea 

HF:  Joel Workman Matthew Mazarolle Chris Jenkins

F:  Gabe McKinnon Finn Collison Jack Briskey 

Ruck:  Monty Vine

           Ben Jaenke-Cain

Rover: Zane Lovell

CFMG Capital - Colts Round 7 Preview

COLTS IN GRAND FINAL REMATCH

The Western Magpies Colts face a tough match when they take on last year’s Grand Final protagonists Palm Beach-Currumbin in a top five clash. PBC are undefeated and the young Pies will be up for the challenge.

The Pies welcome young rover Luke Beetham to the side and from all reports he is a classy player. Lachlan Pearson returns to the last line of defence.

The Pies will be without good players in Jonty MacDougall, who is promoted to the Reserves, while centreman Noah Resuggan and utility Darcy Prest

Rory Edwards moves to the centre  and will team up with Jacob Aurisch and ruckman Lachlan Davies to win the midfield battles.

Up forward Cam Ferguson and Cooper Crowell have been in good form and Whitlam Bishop, Tom Evans  and Lawson Campbell anchor the backline.

Like the Seniors and Reserves, the Colts will need to bring their very best to match and then overcome the undefeated lions on their home turf, but they looked to be returning to their best form a fortnight ago and will be primed for a big team performance.

QAFL Round 7: Western Magpies Colts v Palm Beach-Currumbin at Salk Oval, Currumbin on Saturday, May 18th at 9.30 am

B:  Lachlan Pearson  Tom Evans Jack Spry

HB: Tyler Bobin  Whitlam Bishop  Lawson Campbell

C:  Ethan Mooney Rory Edwards Brodie Gardner

HF:  Calsey Robinson Jackson  Paynter  Oscar Murphy

F: Morgan smith Cam Ferguson  Cooper Crowell

Rucks:  Lachlan Davies

             Jacob Aurisch

Rover:  Luke Beetham

Int:  Anthony Caprioli, Kelly Siemer,  Coleman Cornford,  Claydes Doyle,   

Gut Feelings VI - Brought to you by Regis Aged Care

• The Magpies had another good weekend with 4 out of 4 last weekend. The Seniors had a tough hitout against the last placed Sandgate but all it underlined was that the QAFL is a tough competition and there are no easy games. For the purist this is a great thing but for the Magpies faithful it can cause a few heart palpitations!! The Reserves, Colts and Wodsmen all had victories in matches they were expected to win 

• The Woodsmen after a comfortable win vs UQ last weekend then took on Jimboomba on Friday night and were well beaten in tough conditions. It’s a bit of a consistent theme with the old lads in this side, they don’t do well in tough conditions when speed and fitness are as important as skill and experience!

• Certainly doesn’t help when they had yet another 8 changes from the week before!

• Well, well, there's life in the old dog yet! Gareth Crawford has turned back the clock to his League and Bill Peirce Medal winning ways with two superb games of footy, easily being the Pies best player in the past two matches

• In last Saturday's match at Sandgate, Crawford was instrumental in keeping the Pies in the contest after the home team had slammed on four first quarter goals to have the Pies supporters just a little bit nervous. He then continued to win the footy in contest after contest to propel the Pies into the lead then hang onto a hard fought 12 point victory. Crawford spent most of last year in the reserves and was largely content to play there but he has rejuvenated himself this season and is relishing his footy and the challenge of being the old dog in a young team. 

• Crawford polled 10 votes in the Syd Guildord QAFL player voting (a reminder this is voted on by both coaches and the maximum votes is 10) and he now has 17 votes to be third on the voting, only 2 votes behind the joint leaders. Dan Edwards polled 4 votes and again underlined his enormous potential with another polished display for a youngster and he impressed with his clean ball handling in wet conditions and also adds much needed pace to the Pies line-up.  Jack Goodall also polled 4 votes to have 13 votes and other Pies to poll a vote were Drew Mitchell (3), Riley Greene (1) and Luca Winton (1).

• Reserves tall forward Jesse Hampel is putting up a strong case for a Senior debut after another 5 goal performance which takes him to 17 goals and second on the QAFL Reserves goalkicking list. Hampel marked strongly and is a long accurate kick--he has a perfect kicking action which means he can perform week in-week out regardless of the pressure and game situation.

• The Colts returned to the winners list with a solid display and from all reports will be stronger in coming weeks with the return of their Brisbane Under 18 Academy players. Forward Cooper Crowell booted 4 goals again after a 4 goal effort 2 weeks ago before missing last weeks clash. He is also a strong mark and has a good kicking action and he has 13 goals for the season to be third on the QAFL Colts goalkicking list. 

• You may have noticed that each week for the past couple of weeks  a Sherwood Team of the Week is posted with the players adjudged to be the best in their respective teams from Under 8s through to the Seniors. A great innovation and creates a lot of interest. I am sure the younger players will be stoked to be mentioned in the same team as Gareth Crawford!! Younger platers will be very happy to see their name on the Team of the Week and it is a good way to foster the one club environment.

• PBC next week--huge challenge for the Pies--PBC on top of the ladder in 3 grades--undefeated. Likely celebrating their 1999 and 2009 Premiership reunions after their 2009 opponent remains at lower levels and the Magpies were their greatest rival from that era before being promoted in 2009 to the NEAFL.

• the Magpies will be hosting Morningside on Sunday May 26 to celebrate Indigenous Round and will again sport a special edition guernsey for the game. This year the jumper will be very different from the 2018 edition and is derived from original artwork specifically for the Magpies arranged by Chris Hunt.

• Grey Magpiees Co-ordinator Shane Bridley  has done a great job in creating interest among the Past Players and he informs GUT Feelings that he has been able to secure Hawthorn, Carlton and AFL legend David Parkin as a guest speaker for an event to be held at McCarthy Homes Oval at Chelmer on Saturday July 20th when the Pies host Sandgate.

• The final format is yet to be determined but put this date in your diary  as it promises to be a great day and Shane is hopeful of attracting a bevy of Sherwood past players and officials home for the weekend. 

• There were 6 Magpie Lads at the recent state U15 carnival, with 5 in the Met West side and 1 in the Darling Downs side. Another 6 will be at the U12 carnival, 5 in Met West and 1 in Met East, while club stalwart Brett Noodles McEvoy will coach Met North and also the State Side, though unfortunately young Elliot Sinfield will have to relinquish his place after a broken collar-bone last Friday night put him out for an extended period, a similar fate suffered by young gun Jacob Edwards in 2018 when he broke his arm and missed the carnival

McCarthy Homes Match Review - Magpies prevail after early challenge

The Western Magpies survived a scare at the hands of Sandgate to pocket the 4 points after being challenged early in the game when the home side booted the first 4 goals of the match to have the Magpies on the back foot and digging deep.

Sandgate came out of the blocks on their big home ground  from the first bounce and with several pacy players were able to isolate the Pies backmen and boot 4 goals before the Pies had troubled the scoreboard or even had an inside 50!

The heavens opened up for the last 10 minutes of the first quarter and the match then became a hard fought contest but the Pies were able to steady then match the intensity of the Hawks before wresting control of the middle of the ground.

The Pies did not panic and decided to go with a smaller faster forward line which proved effective and then worked their way back into the contest then dominated the second and third quarters to claw their way to a 21 point three quarter time lead. In the slippery conditions this was a formidable lead but if the Pies thought they were going to run away with the match the Hawks had other ideas and kept the Magpies honest with a 5 goal quarter. Luckily for the Pies they were also able to kick 3 goals themselves and the 12 point final margin was the closest Sandgate got in the last quarter.  

The Magpies had 12 more scoring shots in winning 10.14-74 to 10.2-62. In the circumstances a win is a win, especially after giving up a 4 goal start.

The Pies had to make a late change to their side with Luke Mitchell being rushed straight back into the side after key forward Brody Lumber was a late withdrawal due to upset travel plans  

Mitchell repaid he faith of the selectors by being one of the best players and he showed his class with clean ball handling skills in wet conditions. 

Gareth Crawford continues his fine vein of form with another hard working contribution with well over 40 disposals and Dan Edwards on a wing confirmed he is right at home at QAFL level with a class display, also showing clean handling skills in difficult conditions. Crawford and Edwards, along with Will Fletcher,  kept the Pies in it in the early stages of the match.

Riley Greene kept one of the Hawk's key forwards quiet in a disciplined display and he is growing in maturity and stature in each game he plays. 

Jack Austin was thrown into the ruck after half time and did a fine job, competing hard all around the ground and stand-in skipper Jack Goodall presented all day at CHF and Doug Lawrence was solid at CHB.  Ben Jaenke-Cain and Kale Reed both played their best games to date to also be good contributors for the Pies. 

The Magpies had the bye in the most recent weekend before taking on the undefeated Palm Beach-Currumbin at Currumbin this Saturday. The Magpies will regain a few key players and have a good record at Salk Oval so this shapes as one of the matches of the season to date.  

Magpies: 0.3-3 | 4.5 -29 | 7.11- 53 |  10.14-74 

Hawks: 4.0-24 | 5.2-32 | 5.2-32 | 10.2-62 

Best: G. Crawford, D. Edwards, W. Fletcher, R. Greene, D. Lawrence, J. Goodall

Goals: J. Goodall 2, L. Dennis, L. Dwyer, M. Lonergan, J. Austin, D. Edwards, K. Reed, B. Jaenke-Cain, D. Mitchell

Carter Capner Law - Reserves Round 5 Match Review

RESERVES WIN SCRAPPY AFFAIR

The Western Magpies Reserves won by 69 points over Sandgate last Saturday in what was a scrappy affair.

On face value that is a handsome victory and for 2 quarters the Pies played like a top three team.  They were out of the blocks early to establish control, with a 5 goal to one quarter led by full forward Jesse Hampel and half forward Joel Workman.

The Pies then decided it was all a bit easy and dropped in concentration so the second and third quarters were a fumble fest of dropped ball, poor disposal and general skill errors.

The Pies regained some semblance of good team football in the last quarter to ram home their 16.14-110 to 6.5-41 victory which takes them to third on the ladder.

Jesse Hampel kicked another 5 goals in an impressive display and received good support from the always busy Joel Workman across half forward. Hampel has 13 goals for the season in just 3 outings and is second on the QAFL Reserves goalkicking list

One of the few players to have clean ball handling skills all game was rover Chris Jenkins while Chris Hunt on ball and up forward also put in another good game. Wingers Mitchell O’Dea and Charlie Thorpe were prolific ball winners and drove the Pies forward on numerous occasions. Matt Mazerolle also continues to be a tough matchup, and is really clunking his marks across half forward this year.

The Pies have played better for four quarters but 4 points is 4 points and the win takes them to third on the QAFL ladder.

They will need a four quarter performance after the bye when they take on the undefeated Palm Beach-Currumbin this weekend

 Magpies  5.4-34 | 9.6-60 | 11.6-72 | 16.14-110

Hawks    1.0-6  |  4.0-24 | 6.4-40 | 6.5-41

Best: J. Hampel, C. Jenkins, C. Hunt, M. O'Dea, C. Thorpe, J. Workman

Goals: J. Hampel 5, J. Workman 3, P. Kilroy 2, D. Misso 2, R. Johnson, C. Thorpe, M. Mazerolle

One 2 One Plumbing - Round 5 Colts Match Review

COLTS RETURN TO WINNERS LIST

The Western Magpies Colts returned to the winners list with a solid victory over Sandgate on Saturday morning.

The Pies, coming off two lack lustre performances, were off to a brisk start to get on top early and were never challenged in their 12.5-77 to 1.6-12 victory. Despite the result, Sandgate are a strong side and the result shows the Magpies were switched on for the game after a couple of down weeks.

Welcoming small forward Cooper Crowell, on baller Darcy Prest, half forward Jonty MacDougall and half back Lawson Campbell to the team lifted the Pies and all were good players in the victory.

Crowell booted another 4 goals and was joined by full forward Cam Ferguson, also with 4 goals. Tyler Bobin played his best game for the Pies in his first season in black and white and had good support from consistent CHB Whitlam Bishop and also winger Brodie Gardiner. Crowell has 11 goals this year to be second on the QAFL Colts goalkicking list.

The Magpies sit in third place on the ladder and like their Senior and Reserves counterparts will regather themselves after this week’s bye to take on the undefeated Palm Beach-Currumbin in a fortnight in a rematch of the 2018 Grand Final.  

Magpies  3.1-19 | 4.3-27 |  8.4-52  | 12.5-77

Hawks  0.0-0 | 1.1-7 | 1.3-9 |  1.6-12  

Best: D. Prest, T. Bobin, C. Ferguson, W. Bishop, L. Campbell, B. Gardner

Goals: C. Crowell 4, C. Ferguson 4, L. Davies 2, R. Edwards, J. MacDougall

Place Preview - QAFL Round 5 - Magpie lineup boosted with key inclusions

The Western Magpies have been boosted for their Round 5 QAFL clash with Sandgate by the return of key position players Jack Goodall , Brody Lumber and Doug Lawrence.

However, as is becoming the story there must be some injury debits and not just omissions, with the Pies losing skipper David Lewis with a broken hand and Logan Murray has been suspended for 1 match but would have missed through injury regardless. Monty Vine drops back to the Reserves.

The Pies were brave last week in another narrow loss so will be keen to return to the winner's list at Taigum on Saturday.

The Hawks are winless to date but are still a dangerous proposition for the Pies, especially on the wide open spaces of the Hawks home ground. 

Goodall and Lumber were sorely missed last round and their inclusion may well have turned the tables. With Aaron Highlands in top form the Pies key position stocks look decidedly dangerous and Claye Beams, Riley Easton and Lachine Dennis will add to the danger at ground level.  

Lawrence bolsters the defence and with Luca Winton and Jayden Gallagher both in fine form last week the Pies defence is solid. They will miss the leadership of Lewis but the inclusion of Lawrence will help compensate.

Liam Dwyer has provided a good contest in the ruck in his three games and Will Fletcher will only get better as midfielder with each outing. Gareth Crawford showed there is still some gas in the tank as he turned back the clock last week and he is clearly enjoying himself back in senior footy and leading the way with his outstanding form the last 2 weeks.

Teenagers in Macauley Lonergan, Riley Greene and Ethan Sivijs have been a revelation in the past two matches and will revel in the open spaces at Taigum.

The Pies will be keen to pocket the four points to get their season back on track before next week's bye.