Clubs spread drug lies - AFL boss

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou has spoken out against rumours about Essendon's performance and condition being circulated by rival AFL clubs.

Sports scientist Stephen Dank claims he has an email from WADA approving the use of the anti-obesity drug at the centre of the Essendon scandal.

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou says clubs need to stop weighing into the Essendon drugs saga. Source: Herald Sun

AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou has accused rival clubs of spreading rumours and lies about the Essendon performance-enhancing drugs saga.

As Essendon players prepare for next week's interviews with the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority over the alleged use of illegal substances at the club last year, Demetriou said he knew for a "fact" that other clubs were actively seeking to discredit the Bombers.

The league boss described the circulated rumours, which centre on Essendon's 5-0 start to the season and the long-lasting benefits of performance-enhancing substance use, as "scurrelous" and he demanded the clubs stop.

"Absolutely they are (spreading rumours). I know that to be fact and it's got to stop," Demetriou said on 3AW.

"There appears to be a small group, particularly amongst our clubs, who are taking it upon themselves to put about scurrilous innuendo about the fact that the Essendon football club has won five games and are they getting an advantage?"

"I think this is really unfortunate, I think it's a byproduct of this running commentary and I don't think it is acceptable and it just might be that they've got some good players.

"It just might be that they've got some good tactics, it just might be that their coach is coaching well, they might actually just be playing well.

"The sooner some of our clubs, this is not all but a small few, stop this sort scurrilous mongering, the better because it's not doing anybody any good at all."

Demetriou said the clubs in question should put their efforts into winning games of football.

"They should focus on their own club. There is an investigation ongoing at moment with the Essendon Football Club, I would remind people, (that) they are fully co-operating with.

"They came forward, they're not running away, they are part of this, they know it's going to take a while and they need to let it run its course."

Demetriou's comments came after a leading athletics coach and an AFL sports science expert said if Essendon had used illegal substances last year, they would still be enjoying the fitness benefits during the 2013 season.

Sports scientist Steve Dank with the NRL's Manly Sea Eagles at training. Source: news.com.au

Meanwhile, a series of emails between Stephen Dank and the World Anti-Doping Agency throw into doubt Dank's claims that WADA approved the use of anti-obesity drug AOD-9604.

Dank claims to have an email from WADA that gave him permission to use the drug and says he is prepared to produce it in court.

The Herald Sun has seen a document which prescribes at least four drugs for players as part of Dank's 2012 supplements regime, including AOD-9604, which is banned under the WADA code.

It is understood an Essendon official has told the AFL/ASADA investigation that AOD-9604 had been used, but that the club believed it had WADA approval to do so.

The ABC's 7.30 Report  last night revealed an exchange between Dank and WADA's research and prohibited listings manager Irene Mazzoni about AOD-9604 dated February 2, 2012.

Hird: Players ignore drug distraction

Massoni's email read: "Dear Steve, as I mentioned during our telephone conversation you should contact your national anti doping organisation, in this case ASADA, as certain drug preparations may differ between countries, such seems to be the case with AOD-9604.

"Please be aware that there is a section in the prohibited list S0 - that deals with non approved substances.

"Therefore even if the substances or similar substances do not appear listed it does not automatically mean the substance is permitted."

Dank then allegedly replied: "Thank you for your reply and confirmation that the product or any related product does not appear on any prohibited list."

Mazzoni: "I could not find that it had been approved by any government or regulatory authority.

"That's why I say to contact ASADA to check its status in Australia."

Dank also queried about a number of other supplements, asking whether they were permissible for use.

Mazzoni: "Dear Steve, please address your inquiry to ASADA as they will be in a better position to assess medication sold in Australia.

"WADA only provides information to federations and anti doping organisations.

"This is why you must contact them directly."

The 7.30 Report said ASADA would not comment on any communication with Dank.

- with AAP, staff reporters

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Panic Room: Essendon warning

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

If Brendon Goddard is the slightest bit sore tomorrow morning, the Bombers wouldn't hesitate in giving him a rest. Source: Getty Images

SO ONE-sided is tomorrow's Essendon v Greater Western Sydney clash expected to be that even the Giants have "rested" players with a view to next week.

It would have been nice to see No.1 draft pick Lachie Whitfield run around again - especially for the SuperCoaches out there that plumped for him - but clearly Sheeds has the bigger picture in mind.

To that end it is no surprise that the Bombers have taken a similar approach at the selection table.

Jason Winderlich is simply "sore'' after playing a few matches in a row and even though Dyson Heppell is listed as being out because of a "groin'' we would suggest that if this game were against a top side the shaggy-haired one would be in the team.

And while Elliott Kavanagh, Nathan Lovett-Murray and Nick O'Brien are currently sitting on the emergencies list, we'd say they are more of a chance of playing than one or two of their more senior teammates who may happen to wake a bit sore after a restless night's sleep.

Meanwhile, Eagle-cum Swan-cum Hawk Matt Spangher flew to Adelaide with teammates today and is not without a chance of playing.

If the Crows swing a change, especially with the talls in the forward half of the ground, then don't be surprised to see Spangher make his Hawthorn debut.

The Cats are the kings of the late change but after Panic Room predicted a big out last weekend - cue Tom Hawkins' withdrawal - they have beaten us to the punch by announcing this afternoon Paul Chapman is out with hamstring soreness.

Another move isn't entirely out of the question, with the Geelong defence looking a little under-sized against Richmond trio Jack Riewoldt, Ty Vickery and Luke McGuane. Mitch Brown is listed as an emergency.

Sam Edmund, Jay Clark and Ben Dixon join Brad Johnson to discuss their 'DIY Fix-Ups' ahead of Round 6.

SUPERCOACH ALERT

You thought last week's midfield carnage was bad enough? This week the SuperCoach Gods have gone Armageddon on all defences across the land.

Heppell, Bryce Gibbs, Brett Goodes, Sam Docherty, Rory Laird and Jasper Pittard are all out.

Unfortunately the best solution for a lot of SuperCoaches this week will be to just sit it out and hope for the best.

But if you're keen to cover that last doughnut, consider flicking Pittard for St Kilda's Josh Saunders against Collingwood tonight.

Saunders debuted last week and scored 29 after being subbed on late in the game, and earned huge wraps from coach Scott Watters this week.

Job security seems OK and he's a dual position too.

Oh, and if you're considering making a Bomber - Jobe Watson, Brendon Goddard or David Zaharakis - captain against the Giants, make sure you're using the captain's loophole with either Dane Swan or Scott Pendlebury tonight.

The young coach of Oliver's Army is the No. 6 ranked SuperCoach this season. He reveals the secrets behind his dominance to Brad Johnson

MONEY MATTERS

Panic Room is a huge wrap for Gold Coast this week.

Scott Gullan may be enjoying time at Warrnambool this week - and good on him - but even through the clouds (in his head, not on the coast) he can see the Suns.

And so can his stand-in this week.

Matthew Pavlich, Aaron Sandilands and Kepler Bradley aren't playing which means the Dockers are bereft of any - recognised - key forwards.

Nat Fyfe being suspended robs Freo of some midfield grunt, while the loss of Stephen Hill takes away some outside run.

The Dockers are vulnerable tomorrow night, Gold Coast is starting to show some really good form at home and if it's a hot and humid night at Metricon - which it is forecast to be - then look out.

Not sold? Why not take Guy McKenna's men at the line (15.5) into Port Adelaide at the line (20.5) against North Melbourne.

The Kangaroos are probably genuine favourites, but surely the Power's form gets them to within three kicks in Hobart tomorrow?

That'll get you a $3.42 return.

ON NOTICE

West Coast is starting to stagger.

The Eagles are not yet on the ropes, but with a 1-4 record John Worsfold's men would want to start making a move.

Key players come back this weekend, including Nic Naitanui and Matt Rosa, but the inclusion with the most to prove is former Magpie Sharrod Wellingham.

We all had a laugh when we heard that Wellingham had injured his ankle while jumping on the trampoline just before Round 1, but given the Eagles woes since he desperately needs to make it up to the Eagles faithful - and fast - otherwise they will quickly jump off him.

BACK IN ACTION: Sharrod Wellingham impressed in an outing for East Perth. Picture: Duncan Watkinson Source: PerthNow

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AFL boss: Clubs spread drug lies

Sports scientist Stephen Dank claims he has an email from WADA approving the use of the anti-obesity drug at the centre of the Essendon scandal.

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou says clubs need to stop weighing into the Essendon drugs saga. Picture: Glenn Daniels Source: Herald Sun

AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou has accused rival clubs of spreading rumours and lies about the Essendon performance-enhancing drugs saga.

As Essendon players prepare for next week's interviews with the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority over the alleged use of illegal substances at the club last year, Demetriou said he knew for a "fact" that other clubs were actively seeking to discredit the Bombers.

The league boss described the circulated rumours, which centre on Essendon's 5-0 start to the season and the long-lasting benefits of performance-enhancing substance use, as "scurrelous" and he demanded the clubs stop.

"Absolutely they are (spreading rumours). I know that to be fact and it's got to stop," Demetriou said on 3AW.

"There appears to be a small group, particularly amongst our clubs, who are taking it upon themselves to put about scurrilous innuendo about the fact that the Essendon football club has won five games and are they getting an advantage?"

"I think this is really unfortunate, I think it's a byproduct of this running commentary and I don't think it is acceptable and it just might be that they've got some good players.

"It just might be that they've got some good tactics, it just might be that their coach is coaching well, they might actually just be playing well.

"The sooner some of our clubs, this is not all but a small few, stop this sort scurrilous mongering, the better because it's not doing anybody any good at all."

Demetriou said the clubs in question should put their efforts into winning games of football.

"They should focus on their own club. There is an investigation ongoing at moment with the Essendon Football Club, I would remind people, (that) they are fully cooperating with.

"They came forward, they're not running away, they are part of this, they know it's going to take a while and they need to let it run its course."

Demetriou's comments came after a leading athletics coach and an AFL sports science expert said if Essendon had used illegal substances last year, they would still be enjoying the fitness benefits during the 2013 season.

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Booze fine for Mumford

Ruckman Shane Mumford has been disciplined by the Swans. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph

SYDNEY ruckman Shane Mumford has been punished by the AFL club for an alcohol-related indiscretion in Melbourne.

The reigning premiers had a 10-day break after their historic match in Wellington against St Kilda, with players given the weekend off.

Mumford flew to Melbourne and, in the words of coach John Longmire, made a mistake while drinking on Friday night.

The 26-year-old has been fined, but will take his place in the Swans' side on Sunday when they host Brisbane at the SCG.

Longmire did not reveal the exact nature of Mumford's misdemeanour, or his punishment, but acknowledged co-captains Jarrad McVeigh and Kieren Jack were called on to help deal with the matter.

"We had an incident last week and we dealt with it internally a couple of days ago," Longmire said today.

"Going into a long week, Shane went to Melbourne and had a couple of drinks. We dealt with it with our captains and spoke to Shane about it and dealt with it under the players' code of conduct.

"We're not going to go into details of what he was fined.

"It's disappointing from any player. It was disappointing from Shane's point of view and he acknowledged that.

"... All footy clubs have players that make mistakes. We're confident he'll learn from that, improve and work through the mistakes he makes and push on."

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Daisy 'not thinking' about Blues

Nova 100's Hughesy & Kate ask Collingwood star Dale Thomas if he could be re-united with coach Mick Malthouse at Carlton.

Collingwood star Dale Thomas at training. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

COLLINGWOOD star Dale Thomas says he is not thinking about his future as speculation continues to swirl about a switch to Carlton next year.

The out-of-contract Thomas, who is well known to have a strong bond with Blues coach Mick Malthouse, continues to be linked to Carlton.

When asked about the Blues on Nova 100's Hughesy & Kate program this morning, Thomas said it was 'just another story.'

"It's a massive thing to think about, but I don't need to think about it at the minute because it's not happening," Thomas said.

The high-profile Magpie said the contract talk was not consuming his thoughts when quizzed what percentage of thought he gave to his future beyond this year.

"In all honesty, of everything that goes on in my life - probably 2 per cent," he said.

Collingwood face St Kilda at Etihad Stadium tomorrow night following their Anzac Day capitulation against Essendon.

Acting skipper Scott Pendlebury raised eyebrows last week when he accused his team of "cheating" at vital stages of the clash against the Bombers.

Thomas welcomed the criticism.

"In the crucial stages of the game instead of waiting to go and win the game and getting in there and having a crack at where the ball is and going from there, we didn't do that. We were hoping more to act on it," he said.

"I think it (Pendlebury's comments) was a fair assessment.

"Obviously those comments are usually made behind and in meetings, which is fine," he said.

"It puts the blowtorch on.

"It is refreshing to hear people at press conference say and give honest opinions."

The talk this week has been about how Collingwood are being opened up by teams too easily.

Thomas said it was not news to the players.

"We have had discussions about this as Bucks said in his press conference," he said.

"The media has caught on that we have been scored heavily against but we have been addressing it for a while."
 

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Please Explain: Your club's bolter

Port Adelaide forward Justin Westhoff has become one of the most damaging forwards in the competition. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

The time has come for us to do the explaining.

Every year there are players who jump out of the blocks and surprise us - for various reasons.

Some are massive improvers; others have elevated themselves to a level we weren't sure they were capable of reaching.

Some look to have gone from good to very good.

Here are the guys who have made us sit back and take notice so far in 2013.

ANDY OTTEN (Adelaide)
Almost a forgotten Crow, he has made the most of his opportunities in the final year of his contract. Has even gone forward, which might be helpful in Taylor Walker's absence.

SAM MAYES (Brisbane)

Seamless introduced to AFL footy for the teenager from North Adelaide. Was only overshadowed by Brent Moloney last week.

ANDREW WALKER (Carlton)
We've always known Walker can play, but his re-invention as a free-running defender this season has been one of Mick Malthouse's masterstrokes so far in 2013.

Collingwood forward Jamie Elliott booted five goals to steer the Magpies to victory. Picture: Ludbey Wayne Source: Herald Sun

JAMIE ELLIOTT (Collingwood)
Collingwood insiders have known how good he is for some time. Now the outside world does. Very good overhead and cool in front of goal.

MICHAEL HIBBERD (Essendon)
Injuries cruelled Hibberd last year, but has shown over the past five weeks how important he is to the Bombers. Was enormous on Anzac Day.

JONATHON GRIFFEN (Fremantle)
Is it fair to suggest Aaron Sandilands may spend more time forward than in the ruck when he returns? On Griffen's current form, that's highly possible.

MATHEW STOKES (Geelong)
Stokes said he was disgusted with his performance last season. And some wondered if Allen Christensen and Steven Motlop might edge him out. But Stokes has been back to his best this season, averaging 25 disposals.

CHARLIE DIXON (Gold Coast)
Broke the record for the most goals kicked in a game for the Suns - six against the Giants last week. Was OK last year, but has shown good improvement in his third season.

LACHIE WHITFIELD (Greater Western Sydney)
Sounds weird to have a No.1 draft pick as a surprise-packet. But we've been impressed at how good he has been as early as his first five games. A real jet.

MAX BAILEY (Hawthorn)
One of the feel-good stories of the AFL. Bailey has been able to hold onto the No.1 ruck mantle, while Jarryd Roughead and David Hale have been mainly used forward. Deserved a change of luck.

JEREMY HOWE (Melbourne)
No longer just a marking freak-show, Howe has become one of the Demons' shining light in a year full of gloom.

Lindsay Thomas celebrates a goal against Geelong. Source: Herald Sun

LINDSAY THOMAS (North Melbourne)
If someone had told you a few years ago Thomas would be leading the Coleman Medal - with 21.6 - after five rounds, you might have been certified. Slightly rectified the yips last year, but just can't miss this season.

JUSTIN WESTHOFF (Port Adelaide)
Could easily have been 10 Port players, including the reborn Kane Cornes. But Westhoff has gone from talented but flaky forward with questionable mental toughness to one of the most damaging forwards in the AFL.

LUKE McGUANE (Richmond)
Has showed his late 2012 season switch to attack was no fluke. Originally recruited as a forward and seems to be more at home there.

DYLAN ROBERTON (St Kilda)
Hard to pinpoint Saint surprises, but the former Docker has been serviceable in the absence of Gwilt and others so far.

LUKE PARKER (Sydney)
The sub in Sydney's Grand Final win last season. Judging on his start to 2013, and his outstanding performance in NZ, he has become a key player.

CALLUM SINCLAIR (West Coast)
One surprise has been mature-aged rookie big-man Sinclair, who might have attracted the attention of a few rivals AFL clubs. He's not destined to play a lot of footy this year with Nic Naitanui about to return, but has been OK.

WILL MINSON (Western Bulldogs)
Minson made solid improvement last year, yet didn't finish in the top 10 of the B&F. This year he has taken a bigger leap. No ruckman in the AFL has had as many hit-outs or hit-outs to advantage.

For a variety of reasons, we're sorry we underestimated or undervalued you blokes. You've started 2013 well, keep up the good work.

Yours Sincerely,
Glenn McFarlane

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Lawyer sets out a defence for Dons

Stephen Dank, left, denies using illegal drugs in supplements given to Bombers players. Picture: Phil Hillyard Source: The Daily Telegraph

ANY Essendon player found guilty of taking banned substances could mount a compelling case to avoid suspension, a leading Melbourne sports solicitor said yesterday.

Paul Horvath said a letter that sports scientist Stephen Dank showed the club and a consent form signed by the players to take supplements could also be used in their defence.

It would also help their cases if they had been asked questions about the supplements and were provided with answers by club officials responsible for scrutinising all processes.

"That defence will go a long way if anyone were found to have used a banned substance," he said.

Dons furious over Dank drug letters

"A lot of the facts of this case, without going into individual specifics, might give rise to a player being able to avoid a suspension, but it is difficult to say."

Horvath said Dank could be sued under Australian consumer law for possible misleading conduct if he said he had a letter from WADA that approved the use of anti-obesity drug AOD-9604.

He said he believed the letter was correspondence from the Australian distributor of the drug.

"My expectation is that it is a letter from a government-based agency to the organisation to say something along the lines this is an experimental drug or words to that effect," Horvath said.

"The fact that a letter came from a government agency to that particular drug company legitimises Essendon's use of it and legitimises Dank's use of the drug.

"If those things are correct, it may be inaccurate terminology to say that Dank said that he had a letter himself from WADA. I haven't heard what he said directly.

"If he said that he has a letter that makes our use at Essendon WADA-compliant, then that is accurate."

Horvath said the letter from the drug company might take the drug out of the specifically banned category.

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More Dons doping pain

AFL boss Andrew Demetriou responds to a Herald Sun report that a leaked document shows some Essendon players were prescribed banned drugs.

Herald Sun journalist Michael Warner says Essendon players were prescribed weekly injections.

Essendon sports scientist Stephen Dank. Picture: James Croucher Source: The Daily Telegraph

SOME Essendon players were prescribed weekly injections of the banned anti-obesity drug AOD-9604 for all of last season.

They were regularly injected with thymosin, another substance banned by the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority.

News Limited has seen documents handed to ASADA that reveal Essendon's drugs program.

The dossier shows some players were prescribed weekly injections of the banned anti-obesity drug AOD-9604 for the duration of the 2012 season/

There are variants of Thymosin - some permitted for use - and Essendon is hopeful, but uncertain, of the version its players were administered by sacked sports scientist Stephen Dank.

Dons furious at Dank drug letter

Thymosin Beta 4, which is commonly used for horses, is the banned drug allegedly administered to Cronulla Sharks NRL players in 2011.

Thymosin was mentioned in leaked text messages between Dank and Bombers coach James Hird.

Documents handed to ASADA reveal some Bombers players were given one Thymosin injection a week for six weeks and then one injection a month for the remainder of the AFL season.

Other supplements prescribed to Essendon players and detailed in consent forms signed by players and club officials include colostrum and Tribulus Forte. Colostrum and Tribulus, which are not injected, help with building strength and recovery but are not banned under the anti-doping code.

"The players were effectively being used as human guinea pigs," one figure close to the investigation said last night.

Responding this morning in Adelaide, AFL boss Andrew Demetriou called for patience.

"We need to await the outcome of the ASADA report," he said.

"I know that's frustrating to people, but they haven't even begun interviewing players yet.

"They will start that process as I understand within the next week or so.

"At the moment, they are currently finishing interviews with coaches and other officials.

"None of that has been made public, so I do think people should be very careful about some of the commentary.

"Particularly in light of the fact that we haven't even had one player interviewed yet."

Read the rest of Demetriou's comments here

A central concern of the ASADA-AFL investigation is the lack of independent analysis of the supplements administered to the Essendon players.

Lawyer sets out a defence for Dons

It means ASADA cannot verify what the players were given.

Essendon has not been able to provide an independent assessment of the long-term health effects of some of the substances, some of which are not approved for human consumption.

It emerged yesterday the Bombers have engaged a public relations expert, Elizabeth Lukin of Essential Media Communications, to help manage the crisis at Windy Hill.

James Hird's own legal team is also being advised by leading spin doctor Ian Hanke.

"I run Media and Political Counsel and I have been advising Mr Hird's legal advisers, Ashurst, on media and communications strategy over the past weeks," Hanke said yesterday.

Lukin has been linked to Essendon since the drugs scandal erupted in February, helping shape the messages coming out of the stricken club.

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If you don't mind, umpire

Watch Nathan Buckley react to Ben Reid's free kick for pushing Essendon's Tom Bellchambers in the third quarter.

Calls for dramatic changes to the way the AFL reviews goals is set to reach new heights after controversial decisions in Round 5.

Geelong captain Joel Selwood was forced from the ground after this round-house punch to the stomach from Bulldog captain Matthew Boyd

Collingwoo defender Ben Reid wrestles with Bomber Tom Bellchambers. Source: Getty Images

WE PICK the biggest umpiring eyebrow-raisers of the weekend.

Umpiring is a tough job - getting tougher every year with more rule tweaks and interpretation changes - and most of the time the men in white/green/red do a great job. Sometimes, however, we need to examine some issues closer to get a clear explanation and help everyone's understanding of the game.

Each week we'll nominate five decisions that demand a second look. Then we'll take on board your views and any nominations we've missed, and try to get a verdict from AFL House.

Have your say on these decisions and let us know any we missed by leaving a comment below or sending a note on Twitter or Facebook

IS IT AGAINST THE RULES TO BE STRONG?

It's best not to be too strong, apparently. Two confusing umpiring decisions - both in favour of Essendon - were blights on what was otherwise an enthralling Anzac Day battle. First, Ben Reid turned Tom Bellchambers in a contest deep inside 50, pushed the Bomber in the side and chest and was pinged, resulting in a goal (see Nathan Buckley's reaction in the video player above). Then Quinten Lynch was later rolled for muscling Bellchambers out of a ruck contest. Whatever the rulings, they were physical duels that should have been let go.

Collingwoo defender Ben Reid wrestles with Bomber Tom Bellchambers. Source: Getty Images

VIDEO WIN FOR SWANS

New Zealanders got their first look at Aussie rules on Anzac Day, and they also had a first-hand introduction to the confusion of the video goal review system. St Kilda defender Jarryn Geary launched a long shot at goal which was appeared to clear the line before being marked by Swans defender Ted Richards.

Live HQ: SuperCoach scores and stats from every Round 5 match

He may have been robbed by skipper Nick Riewoldt, who fell across the goal-umpire's vision forcing the field umpire to call for a replay. Despite the footage showing both Richards' feet were well behind the goal-line, the footage was ruled "inconclusive" and the Saints awarded a behind. Watch the incident below

The AFL video review system is in the spotlight again after a close call in New Zealand

KOSI'S KIWI NIGHTMARE

Justin Koschitzke will go down in history as the first player to kick a goal in a match overseas, but he didn't end the game in a blaze of glory. With the Saints surging in the last quarter, Kosi dumped his Sydney opponent after he kicked the ball on the wing, causing a down-field free kick to Adam Goodes on the Swans' 50m line. There wasn't much malice in the bump, but it didn't achieve anything either, so why bother? It wasn't a great minute or so for Kosi and the umpires - moments earlier he could have been having a shot at goal himself after a Sydney player encroached well within the "protected area" after the Saints veteran took a mark 90m from goal - an offence that has resulted in a 50m penalty several times this season, and one which Kosi has been known to commit more than once himself.

CAT BURGLARS ROB THE DOGS

AFTER failing to rob teammate Jackson Thurlow last week in a prank gone wrong, the Cats instead turned their petty thieving to the Dogs on Saturday night. Andrew Mackie booted the ball out on the full deep in defence, and the free kick was promptly paid to goalsneak Pat Veszpremi. "Your kick, No. 8 (Veszpremi)," the field umpire clearly said. But, when Mackie picked up the ball and took the free kick, 'play on' was the call. It left Dogs fans - and players - in total disbelief in what was a bizarre moment. Why didn't the umpire stop, bring the ball back and give the Dogs a shot on goal? Instead the Cats went down the other end where Podsiadly booted a major late in the first term. Ouch. See below two Dogs face match review panel worries.

GALLERY: The best 40 pictures from Round 5

SYLVIA SURFER

DEMON Colin Sylvia went for a ride on former teammate Brent Moloney on the wing in the second term at the Gabba yesterday. He took off way too early and found himself upside-down on Moloney's shoulders with his arms around his face long before the ball arrived. The umpire's verdict? A free kick to Sylvia. The umpire ruled Moloney had illegally blocked his opponent, despite replays showing he was running backwards with his eyes on the ball and probably never saw Sylvia coming.

Brent Moloney is hugged by his former teammates after the match. Source: The Courier-Mail

FANS WANT RULE TO SLIDE ON OUT

NOW for the weekly instalment on the sliding rule. On a slippery Anzac Day players were sliding all over the place with no repercussions, but umpires cracked down when Trent Cotchin chased a loose ball in Perth and GWS forward Jeremy Cameron did the same in Canberra the next day. Does anyone understand this rule? The Cameron call left fans livid. The Giants forward was diving towards the ball when Tom Murphy seemingly slid in with his knees. Instead of receiving a free kick for high contact, Cameron was pinged and denied a shot on goal. That led to four quick Suns goals in the last term, sucking all the momentum out of GWS.

GOAL REVIEW ii) iii) iv) and v)

FOLLOWING the confusion in New Zealand, another four controversial goal review - or lack of review - decisions marred Round 5. Two bizarre rulings just minutes apart in yesterday's Hawthorn-North Melbourne clash heightened the frustration, while Billie Smedt's "point" on Saturday night was another low for the second-year system. And as if that wasn't bad enough, Damien Hardwick remains adamant Matt White's shot was a goal on Friday night. Take a look at all these incidents in the video player below and you be the judge.

Calls for dramatic changes to the way the AFL reviews goals is set to reach new heights after controversial decisions in Round 5.

  ... AND ONE FOR THE MATCH REVIEW PANEL

BOYD, GOODES IN HOT WATER

AS if having Ryan Griffen, Daniel Giansiracusa, Shaun Higgins, Robert Murphy, Tory Dickson and Easton Wood injured wasn't bad enough, the Dogs now have match review panel fears ahead of their trip west to face the Eagles. Captain Matthew Boyd - in just his second game back from a calf tear - landed this blow (see video below) on Cats counterpart Joel Selwood. Meanwhile, Goodes' errant elbow that knocked out Josh caddy is also certain to be looked at. Watch the video and you be the judge.

Geelong captain Joel Selwood was forced from the ground after this round-house punch to the stomach from Bulldog captain Matthew Boyd

 

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Rioli out for two months

Cyril Rioli leaves the field after hurting his hamstring. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

HAWTHORN has suffered a huge injury blow with news Cyril Rioli will miss up to two months with a hamstring injury.

Rioli suffered a high grade tear to the lower part of his right hamstring during the fourth quarter of yesterday's thrilling win against North Melbourne.

The Hawks livewire will not require surgery, but the club has already conceded the 23-year-old will not play before its bye in Round 11.

The damage Rioli's absence could cause was no more apparent than yesterday considering, before he went off, he was a huge part of why the out-of-sorts Hawks were able to topple the Roos.

Rioli consulted with surgeons in the city this morning before fronting the media a short time ago to deliver the from news himself.

He said the injury was all the more frustrating considering his previous history with hamstring troubles in both legs.

Rioli, who was walking with a considerable limp today, said he expected his rehabilitation over the next few weeks to involve a lot of rest and swimming.

Rioli, who has a history of hamstring problems, went down clutching his right leg mid-way through the final quarter of the Hawks three-point win over North Melbourne.

He has missed extended runs of games due to hamstring problems over his career, but has not had a major issue since 2011.

That year he missed five games in two stretches while in 2009, his second year at Hawthorn, he missed three matches.

He played a crucial role in Hawthorn's victory yesterday before the injury, kicking four goals.

"He's obviously hurt his hamstring so we'll get that scanned during the week,'' Clarkson said.

"I dare say he'll miss a period of footy whether that's one week or longer we'll just have to wait and see next week.

"But for all those Adelaide Crows supporters, I'm pretty certain that they can be assured that he won't be playing next week.

"We're lucky we had him in the first three and a bit quarters because we would have been in a bit of trouble without him.

"That's obviously happened before, he's a pretty special talent. We needed some special things to occur today to just get us a goal when we really needed it and he did that on four occasions.''

Hawthorn lost the clearances 25 to 44 and had 16 less inside 50s than the Kangaroos yesterday.

Clarkson admitted North "certainly had the measure of our midfield today''

Who sang that song there's a fine line between pleasure and pain?''

Clarkson said: "I tell you what, there's a fine line today. I could have quite easily been sitting here absolutely spewing and perhaps North did deserve to win in terms of all the KPIs that they won during the game.

"To the credit of our guys, we've lost some of those close contests over the journey so it was pleasing to get one today.''

Clarkson said many of his players including Luke Hodge, who had just four touches to half time, and Lance Franklin, who failed to kick a goal, were down.

"There's lots of things to probably analyse about the game,'' Clarkson said.

"(We) probably would analyse it a bit deeper had we lost. If we win, it's probably just move on because our form hasn't been too bad up until this point in time.'

'Clarkson hoped midfielder Brad Sewell (hamstring) would be return to play Adelaide on Saturday.

"That's the thing with some of these soft tissue injuries, we thought it was going to be a one weeker...but it's ended up being three,'' he said.

"You've just got to be patient with them.''

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Cats deny plucky Dogs

Mature-aged Bulldogs recruit Brett Goodes may come under scrutiny from the AFL match review panel for this bump on Geelong's Josh Caddy.

Joel Selwood bursts out of the middle. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

THE massive screen on the way into Etihad Stadium beamed the words "Western Bulldogs v Geelong: Mission Possible".

And while there were occasional glimmers of an improbable upset - including midway through the final quarter - there was always going to be flaw in the plot that counted against a Hollywood ending.

In a nutshell, it was simply that for all the Dogs' grunt and sweat and good intentions they were no match for the class, experience and occasional brilliance of the Cats.

And while it would be easy to laud the bravery of the underdog for refusing to give in, the same applies to a Geelong team that was reduced to 20 men from midway through the second term.

The Bulldogs began brightly, kicking the first two goals of the match and dominating the centre bounces largely through the powerful ruckwork of Will Minson.

Up forward Liam Jones was plucking marks and looked dangerous in the Dogs forward line, even though the Hawkins-less Cats still had Harry Taylor and James Podsiadly as effective marking targets at the other end.

Live HQ: SuperCoach stats, scores

Nick Lower kept Geelong captain Joel Selwood to just three touches in the opening term, and although the Cats led by 16 points at the first change there were encouraging signs for the Dogs.

Geelong had the most influential player of the first half: Steve Johnson spent the early part of the match in the midfield and was as creative as he was unpredictable. But while you never knew what he would do with the ball, he could be relied upon to do the basics when he didn't have it.

Three times he laid crunching tackles that resulted in scoring chances for teammates. After all, even Picasso obeyed some of the time-honoured principles of his craft when his paintbrush championed cubism.

The match looked headed for a predictable storyline when Geelong got out to a 34-point lead midway through the second quarter. So much so that Cats looked like they were becoming bored and started searching for ways to entertain themselves. The Dogs made them pay by scrapping their way back into the contest.

The likes of Matthew Boyd, Tom Liberatore and Daniel Cross kept toiling away honestly, while Jason Johannisen and Luke Dahlhaus used their dash to try to take on the Cats and create.

In the third quarter the Dogs simply tightened up and made the Cats more accountable, opting to go one on one with their opponents.

For all of their sustained periods of discipline, though, they frequently found themselves sliced open by a Geelong team prepared to back itself and takes risks. The Cats were prepared to flick handballs around to find space and then charge through the middle of the ground.

Once in space they either delivered the ball to Taylor and Podsiadly, or backed in the pace and creativity of the likes of Steven Motlop, Johnson and Allen Christensen.

Steven Motlop celebrates his goal in the second quarter. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: Herald Sun

Taylor was superb in the absence of last year's club champion Tom Hawkins, and when the Cats needed steadying in the final quarter he even switched to defence and took some timely marks.

sThe Dogs probably had the better of the centre bounces and midfield stoppages, but struggled to make inroads in their forward half, where the cool Geelong heads of Andrew Mackie, James Bartel and Corey Enright controlled play.

The Bulldogs kicked the only goals in the final term (three) as Geelong, down on its interchange rotations, began to tire. But the Cats did what good teams do: they gutsed it out and did what they needed to do to win.

But there were plenty of encouraging signs for a Bulldogs team that seemingly was faced with Mission Impossible. Several of their youngsters showed a bit, and while they were ultimately outclassed, it's worth remembering they were without four of the most polished players on their list: Ryan Griffen, Bob Murphy, Daniel Giansiracusa and Shaun Higgins.

Then again, Geelong could argue it was down to a measly 13 premiership players.

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Round 5 halftime report

Adelaide Crows forward Taylor Walker is subbed off after knee injury in match against Blues.

Port Adelaide pull off an amazing comeback to beat West Coast by five points at AAMI Stadium.

Taylor Walker landed awkwardly against the Blues, injuring his right knee. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

WHAT'S with all the knee injuries in the AFL? They have been going down like ninepins in the opening rounds of the season.

Adelaide Crows star Taylor Walker goes down and eventually subbed off at AAMI Stadium. Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

KNEE INJURIES MAR ROUND

IT was a tough weekend for AFL medical departments with Taylor Walker and Jared Rivers the latest cut down by crippling knee injuries.

Walker was substituted out of the Crows 32-point loss to Carlton after hyper-extending his right knee trying to spoil a marking contest at half forward.

Rivers on the other hand was more innocuous with the Cats defender hobbling off the ground after he felt a pop during the first quarter.

The former Demon had his right knee heavily strapped following an injury setback during the pre-season.

Injured GWS youngster Dom Tyson expressed his thoughts on the spate of knee injuries on Twitter.

Tyson had surgery in December to repair his ruptured posterior cruciate ligament, an injury sustained in a tackling drill at training.

Meanwhile, Kepler Bradley will undergo a knee reconstruction after snapping his anterior cruciate and lateral ligaments on Friday night.

And, Collingwood defender Alan Toovey ruptured his ACL on Anzac Day.

Brett Goodes of the Bulldogs runs with the ball during the round five AFL match against Geelong Cats at Etihad Stadium. Picture: Scott Barbour Source: Getty Images

NOT SO GOODES FOR DOG

MATURE-aged Bulldogs recruit Brett Goodes could come under scrutiny for this bump on Geelong young gun Josh Caddy.

Goodes, 29, struck Caddy in the jaw with his elbow last night during the second quarter of the Dog's 21-point loss at Etihad Stadium.

Caddy returned to the field after passing a concussion test which could work in the Bulldog's favour tomorrow when the AFL match review panel assesses the impact of the collision.

Watch the bump

Richmond defender Steve Morris copped a one-match ban for a similar incident with Collingwood forward Jamie Elliott last week.

And, Essendon forward Nick Kommer was stung two-matches for clipping Fremantle utility Kepler Bradley in the head in Round 3.

Matt Priddis is helped off AAMI Stadium after being concussed Picture: Sarah Reed Source: The Advertiser

PRIDDIS KNOCKED OUT

NO risks will be taken with West Coast midfielder Matthew Priddis after the hard-nosed extractor was concussed in this bone-jarring tackle.

Priddis had his arms pinned and head driven into the turf during the first quarter of the Eagles match against Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.

The 28-year-old was taken off the the ground on a stretcher to a rousing reception before making his own way into the rooms.

He was subbed out of the match a short time later.

Priddis was sidelined with concussion last year when he was driven into the ground in eerily similar circumstances by Essendon defender Courtenay Dempsey.

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

CHARLIE'S BAG OF TRICKS

GOLD Coast spearhead Charlie Dixon broke the shackles kicking a club-record six goals against Greater Western Sydney.

It was the performance Suns fans had been waiting for from the 22-year-old wunderkind who clunked nine marks in the dominant display.

Dixon's haul guided the Suns to their highest ever score of 21.22 (148) which included multiple goal scorers in Gary Ablett (three), Zac Smith (three), Jaeger O'Meara (two) and Tom Lynch (two).

Harry Taylor of the Cats celebrates after kicking a goal during the round five AFL match against Western Bulldogs and the Geelong Cats at Etihad Stadium. Picture: Scott Barbour Source: Getty Images

MR VERSATILITY

HARRY Taylor's reputation as one of the league's most versatile players received a boost last night when the defender turned forward booted a game-high five goals against the Western Bulldogs.

Taylor was forced to lead the Cats forward line alongside James Podsiadly after spearhead Tom Hawkins (back) was a late withdrawal.

Read more about Taylor's standout performance here.

Follow SuperFooty's Gilbert Gardiner - @gilbertgardiner

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